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Rat vs Mouse Droppings

9 January 2023

When it comes to identifying pests in your home, one of the most important clues to look for is droppings. Different types of pests leave behind distinctive droppings that can help you determine what kind of animal you’re dealing with. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between rat vs mouse droppings. Know what to look for if you suspect a rodent infestation in your home.

Rat Droppings

First, let’s consider the appearance of rat droppings. Rat droppings are larger and more oblong in shape than mouse droppings. Droppings tend to be about half an inch to three-quarters of an inch long. The diameter is about a quarter of an inch. Rat droppings are also usually dark in colour and may have a shiny or moist appearance when they are fresh.

rat droppings feces
Rat Droppings

Mouse Droppings

Mouse droppings are much smaller than rat droppings. The average length is about a quarter of an inch and a diameter of about an eighth of an inch. Mouse droppings are usually more spindle-shaped than rat droppings. They have pointed ends and look like a grain of rice. Mouse droppings are also generally lighter in colour than rat droppings. Often they have a more chalky or dry appearance when they are fresh.

a guide to identifying a mouse droppings
these are mice droppings

Rat vs Mouse Droppings Differences

A key difference between rat droppings and mouse droppings is the location where they are found. Rat droppings are usually found in areas where rats are active. Areas  like crawl spaces, basements, and along the walls of a building. Mouse droppings, are more likely to be found in areas where mice are active. They are found in areas such as in pantries, behind appliances, attics and in the corners of rooms.

Diseases

It’s also important to note that rat droppings may contain diseases that can be transmitted to humans, such as salmonella and hantavirus. Mouse droppings, on the other hand, are generally considered less of a health risk, although they can still harbour bacteria that can cause illness if ingested.

In conclusion, rat droppings and mouse droppings are two important clues to look for when trying to identify a rodent infestation in your home. Rat droppings are larger and more oblong in shape, while mouse droppings are smaller and more spindle-shaped. Rat droppings are also generally darker in colour and may have a shiny or moist appearance. Mouse droppings are lighter in colour and may have a chalky or dry appearance. Understanding these differences can help you determine which type of rodent you’re dealing with and take the appropriate steps to get rid of the pests.

 

Learn about rodent control:

https://www.pestprotectionplus.com/rodents/

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