Rodent Control & Removal Services
Rodents like mice and rats are more than just a nuisance—they can spread diseases, contaminate food, cause property damage, and even create fire hazards by chewing through electrical wiring. Our comprehensive rodent control services eliminate existing infestations and prevent future problems through a strategic combination of exclusion, removal, and prevention.
Health Risks of Rodent Infestations
Rodents can transmit over 35 diseases to humans through direct contact, bites, or exposure to their droppings, urine, or saliva. These include Hantavirus, Salmonellosis, Leptospirosis, and Rat-Bite Fever.
Our Rodent Control Approach
At Shield Pest Control, we use a comprehensive, three-phase approach to rodent management that addresses current infestations while preventing future problems:
Inspection & Assessment
Our technicians conduct a thorough inspection to identify rodent species, entry points, nesting areas, and the extent of the infestation.
Removal & Elimination
We implement targeted removal strategies using a combination of trapping, baiting, and monitoring to eliminate the current rodent population.
Exclusion & Prevention
We seal entry points and implement preventive measures to ensure rodents cannot re-enter your property in the future.
Common Rodent Species We Control
House Mice
Small, gray or brown rodents with pointed snouts and large ears. They are excellent climbers and can squeeze through openings as small as a dime.
- Typically 2-4 inches long (excluding tail)
- Reproduce rapidly, with females producing up to 10 litters per year
- Often found in kitchens, pantries, and wall voids
- Leave small, rod-shaped droppings
Norway Rats
Large, robust rodents with blunt snouts and small ears. They are excellent burrowers and typically enter buildings at ground level.
- Typically 7-10 inches long (excluding tail)
- Prefer lower levels of buildings, basements, and sewers
- Can chew through wood, plastic, and soft metals
- Leave large, capsule-shaped droppings
Roof Rats
Slender rodents with pointed snouts and large ears. They are excellent climbers and typically enter buildings from above.
- Typically 6-8 inches long (excluding tail)
- Prefer upper levels of buildings, attics, and trees
- Excellent climbers that can access roofs via utility lines or trees
- Leave medium-sized, spindle-shaped droppings
Other Rodents
We also handle other rodent species that may invade your property:
- Squirrels (attic invasions)
- Voles (lawn and garden damage)
- Chipmunks (burrowing near foundations)
- Field mice (seasonal invasions)
Our Rodent Control Services
Comprehensive Rodent Inspection
Our detailed inspection process includes:
- Identifying rodent species and infestation severity
- Locating entry points, runways, and nesting areas
- Assessing property damage and contamination
- Identifying conducive conditions that attract rodents
Rodent Trapping & Removal
Our effective trapping and removal methods include:
- Strategic placement of traps in high-activity areas
- Multiple trap types based on rodent species and location
- Humane removal and disposal of captured rodents
- Regular monitoring and trap maintenance
Rodent Exclusion
Our comprehensive exclusion services include:
- Sealing entry points with durable materials resistant to gnawing
- Installing door sweeps and weather stripping
- Securing vents, pipes, and utility penetrations
- Repairing damaged areas that could provide access
Rodent Baiting Programs
Our strategic baiting programs include:
- Tamper-resistant bait stations for safety
- Strategic placement in rodent travel paths
- Regular monitoring and bait replacement
- Documentation of bait station locations and activity
Sanitation & Cleanup
Our thorough cleanup services include:
- Safe removal of rodent droppings and nesting materials
- Decontamination of affected areas
- Odor elimination treatments
- Insulation replacement recommendations when necessary
Signs of a Rodent Infestation
Being able to identify the early signs of rodent activity can help prevent a full-blown infestation. Watch for these common indicators:
Droppings
Fresh rodent droppings are dark and moist, while older droppings are gray and dusty. They're typically found along runways, feeding areas, and near nesting sites.
Rub Marks
Dark, greasy marks along walls and baseboards where rodents travel repeatedly, caused by the oils in their fur rubbing against surfaces.
Noises
Scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds in walls, ceilings, or under floors, especially at night when rodents are most active.
Gnaw Marks
Teeth marks on food packaging, wooden structures, electrical wires, or plastic pipes. Fresh gnaw marks are rough and light in color.
Nests
Collections of shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or other soft materials in sheltered locations like wall voids, attics, or behind appliances.
Tracks
Footprints or tail marks in dusty areas. You can sprinkle a small amount of flour or talcum powder to check for activity.
Rodent Prevention Tips
In addition to professional rodent control, these preventive measures can help reduce the risk of rodent infestations:
- Seal all exterior cracks and holes larger than ¼ inch
- Store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up crumbs and spills
- Keep pet food in sealed containers and don't leave it out overnight
- Trim vegetation away from your home's foundation
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground
- Keep garbage in tightly sealed containers
- Eliminate sources of standing water around your property
- Regularly inspect your home for signs of rodent activity
Eliminate Rodent Problems Today
Don't let rodents threaten your health and property. Contact Shield Pest Control today to schedule a comprehensive rodent inspection and discuss your treatment options. Our expert technicians will help you eliminate existing rodent problems and prevent future infestations.