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Mice and rats are both rodents, but they act very differently. Their size, habits, and the damage they cause can all vary around Texas homes. In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot the difference and stop them before they cause trouble.
Mice vs. Rats: How They Differ in Size, Color, and Type
Mice:
- Size: Just 2 to 4 inches long without the tail.
- Color: You can see them in a variety of colors, including black, white, and different shades of brown, depending on the species.
- Head: Tiny head with a sharp nose.
- Tail: Thin, flexible, and nearly body-length
- Behavior: Fast little movers that slip through tiny cracks before you even notice.
- Where Found: Usually hiding in kitchen cabinets, pantries, or behind appliances.
Rats:
- Size: Larger than mice usually 8 to 12 inches long from nose to tail.
- Color: Usually brown, black, or dark gray with a thicker coat.
- Head: Stocky head and blunt nose, perfect for gnawing and digging.
- Tail: Thick and rough with scales, usually a bit shorter than the body.
Damage to Texas Homes:
Rats have very sharp teeth and can easily gnaw through wires, wood, and even pipes which means your property can suffer a lot from such damage. Moreover, they can ruin your food and destroy the insulation making the area dirty and messy.
Most Common Rodents in Texas Homes
You will find certain species of rodents that may come out more frequently than others within the region of Dallas and Fort Worth.
House Mouse: They are tiny creatures that are quick movers. Mice are able to bear several litters within a short period of time.
Norway Rat: These rats are big and heavy. They dig fast around foundations, trash bins, or basements.
Roof Rat: They’re slim and dark in color. Roof rats love to live in attics, garages, and even palm trees.
Each type of rodent behaves differently, and this way you can easily get rid of them the right way.
Why Rodents Are Dangerous More Than Just a Nuisance
Rodents aren’t just annoying, they can damage your home and spread germs if you don’t take care of them quickly.
1. Structural and Electrical Damage
Rats and mice love to hide in garages and cars, chewing through wires and seat padding. It’s an expensive problem Texas homeowners deal with all the time.
2. Contamination and Disease
Rodents make a mess that’s more than just gross, it’s risky. Their waste can spread disease and stir up dust that leads to breathing issues for your family.
3. Property and Vehicle Damage
They often sneak into garages and cars, chewing on seats and wires. It’s a costly headache many Texas homeowners deal with every year.
How to Keep Mice and Rats Out
Don’t wait until you spot a mouse running across the floor. You should try these easy prevention tips from our EcoStar pest control team.
- Seal entry points.
- Keep it clean.
- Remove clutter.
- Trim vegetation.
- Inspect seasonally.
Professional Rodent Control & Exterminator Services in Fort Worth and Dallas
Even with the best prevention, sometimes rodents still find a way in. When that happens, EcoStar Pest Control is ready to step in and take care of the problem fast.
Our Rodent Control & Exterminator Services across Fort Worth and Dallas include:
- We start with a full inspection to find where rodents are getting in and where they’re nesting.
- Our treatments are eco-friendly and safe, so your family and pets stay protected.
- We seal every possible entry point to keep new rodents from sneaking back in.
- We follow up after service to make sure your home stays clean and completely rodent-free.
With over 15 years serving Texas families, we know exactly how local rodents behave and how to stop them for good.
Final Thoughts
Telling the difference between a mouse and a rat isn’t just fun fact stuff, it’s how you protect your home from real damage and health issues.
If you’ve been hearing scratching in the attic, spotted droppings, or seen chewed wires, don’t wait until it gets worse. Call EcoStar Pest Control today for trusted rodent control and extermination in Fort Worth and Dallas, and get your peace of mind back.
