Rodent extermination and control
Rodents are commonly found in all areas of Ohio. In Northeast Ohio, we typically deal with the house mouse, deer mouse, and the brown rat (also known as the common rat or Norway rat). Other species of rodent pests that can be encountered in the Northeast Ohio area are voles and shrews. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, house mice and brown rats are the only widespread nonnative rodents in Ohio. House mice rely on humans and can be found anywhere inside buildings. Brown rats can be found anywhere that can provide food and shelter, as well as areas with garbage, sewers, basements, and anywhere humans are present. Shrews can dig destructive tunnels and get into garages, crawlspaces, and basements, but are not restricted to a specific habitat.
Rodents pose a great risk to the health and safety of humans. Rodents almost always require a professional to deal with the situation depending on the severity. The CDC says that “rats and mice spread over 35 diseases worldwide.” According to PestWorld.org, “they are capable of dropping up to 25,000 fecal pellets each year, an estimated 70 times each day.” If you find rodents in your home or business in Northeast Ohio, please give us a call.
Our principles of being SAFE, MEASURABLE, ADAPTABLE, RELIABLE, and TIMELY ensure a complete approach to rodent extermination.
Common types of rodents in Northeast Ohio:
- House Mouse
- Deer Mouse
- Brown Rat
- Northern Short-Tailed Shrew
Why are rodents dangerous:
- Rodents are not just a nuisance, but a health risk
- Rodents like rats and mice can spread dozens of diseases
- Rodents can trigger allergies
- Rodents can transmit foodborne illnesses
- Rodents can spread Hantavirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, tularemia, and plague
- Rodents can damage electrical wiring and cause faulty circuits and fire hazards
How do rodents get into the home:
- Unsanitary environments with food, shelter, and water attract rodents
- Through cracks and gaps in the foundation, walls, doors, and floors
- Plumbing and other utility holes around the home
- Leaving doors, garages, and windows open
- Access points in roofs and soffits/vents
- Attics and crawlspaces
Signs of a rodent infestation:
The National Pest Management Association estimates that rodents invade about 21 million homes in the United States every winter. Signs of a rodent infestation include finding visible droppings (poop) under appliances, near walls, attics, basements, and under sinks or near food. You may find holes in boxes or bags and torn-up items near food. Mice and rats will leave damage and debris from chewing on anything from building materials like insulation and wire to furniture, clothing, or books. Sometimes you can also notice an odor, which may indicate a potentially dead rodent trapped in the home. Fly activity may also indicate a dead rodent.
Use our SMART Exterminators approach to rodent extermination and control:
It is important to work with a licensed pest control company like SMART Exterminators because we can quickly control the situation. We are experienced in doing proper inspections, identifying the rodent we are dealing with, and gauging the severity of the infestation. This will help us determine the best solution to eradicate the rodents from your home or business. We move quickly and efficiently with our SMART approach (safe, measurable, adaptable, reliable, and timely). We also have access to special equipment and pesticides that only a licensed applicator can apply. Pesticides can be toxic if they are misused, so it is important to work with a licensed professional.
