Roof rats are the most common species of rat found on Vancouver Island. The roof rat is black or grey in color and will grow to about 10 inches in length, not including the tail. As the name suggests, these animals are excellent climbers. They prefer to roost up high, so these rats will commonly infest attic and roof spaces.
Norway rats are larger than roof rats, and will grow to 12 inches in length. Norway rats are usually brown in color. These animals prefer to burrow rather than nesting up high. These rats will commonly enter basement and crawlspace areas.
Mice - The two most common species of mice that infest structures on Vancouver Island, are the house mouse, and the deer mouse. The house mouse is by far the most common species in Victoria. These animals will commonly infest homes and business’s. They can gain entry through the smallest of openings, and can even squeeze through openings as small as a dime. The other mouse found in our region is the deer mouse. Deer mice are commonly found in rural areas Deer mice have been linked to being carriers of the hantavirus.
Old Island can professionally clean and disinfect rodent infested areas.
What attracts rats?
Some things that may attract rats to your home include: bird feeders, wood piles, compost piles, rotting fruit, over grown lawns and bushes, pet food dishes, garbage, rubbish piles, and ornamental ponds.
Never attempt to poison rats inside of your home.
After feeding on poison it can take 5 to 7 days before a rat will die. During this time they may crawl away and perish in an inaccessible wall, floor, or ceiling void. The result will be crawling maggots, flesh flies and a putrid smell that may last for several weeks.
Do Rodents Carry Disease?
Yes, both rats and mice are potential carriers of disease. Hantavirus is the disease that has been in the news the last few years. This may be contracted through disturbing rodent droppings. This is a virus that attacks the respiratory system and can be fatal. Never attempt to sweep or clean up rodent droppings without proper respiratory equipment.
