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Common Rodent Species in the Houston Area

Rodents in your home or business are more than just a nuisance—they can significantly threaten your health, property, and peace of mind. Houston, with its warm and humid climate, provides the perfect environment for a variety of rodent species. Identifying these pests and addressing infestations quickly is crucial to keeping your environment safe.

This blog will explore the most common rodent species found in and around the Houston area, the dangers they pose, and how Cypress Creek Pest Control can help you keep them at bay.

Why Rodents Are a Problem in Houston

Rodents are highly adaptable and capable of thriving in urban environments, including the bustling areas of Houston. They often invade homes and businesses searching for food, shelter, and water. Leaving even a small infestation untreated can lead to bigger problems, such as:

• Health Risks: Rodents carry diseases like Hantavirus, Salmonella, and Leptospirosis, which can spread to humans through droppings, urine, or bites.
• Structural Damage: With their constant need to gnaw, rodents can damage furniture, electrical wiring, and insulation. This could even increase the risk of electrical fires.
• Rapid Breeding: A few rodents can turn into a full-blown infestation before you know it. Acting swiftly is key.

Now, let’s look at the rodent species you’re likely to encounter in Houston.

Common Rodent Species in the Houston Area

1. Norway Rats

Norway rats, also known as sewer rats, are one of the most common species in urban areas like Houston. These rodents are large, averaging 7-9 inches in body length, with thick bodies and scaly tails.

Dangers

• Known carriers of diseases, including rat-bite fever.
• Can gnaw through wiring and wood structures, causing property damage.

Signs of Infestation

• Droppings near food sources.
• Gnaw marks on furniture or wiring.
• Grease trails left along walls.

2. Roof Rats

Roof rats, or black rats, are known for their climbing ability. These smaller rodents prefer to nest above ground in attics, ceilings, or trees.

Dangers

• Able to spread diseases through droppings and urine.
• Chew through electrical wires, posing a fire risk.

Signs of Infestation

• Scratching noises in the attic or walls.
• Nests made from shredded materials like insulation or fabric.
• Droppings around high points in your home.

3. House Mice

House mice are small rodents with gray or light brown fur. They’re one of the most prevalent rodent species, especially in residential areas.

Dangers

• Contaminate food supplies with their droppings and urine.
• Can carry diseases including Salmonella.

Signs of Infestation

• Small, rice-shaped droppings near food.
• Chewed packaging or holes in food containers.
• Musky odors in storage or enclosed spaces.

4. Field Mice

Field mice, or deer mice, often find their way into Houston homes during cooler months. They typically live in fields or wooded areas but seek shelter indoors when temperatures drop.

Dangers

• Known carriers of Hantavirus, which can cause severe respiratory illnesses in humans.
• Potential damage to furniture, storage boxes, and insulation.

Signs of Infestation

• Nesting in storage areas or garages.
• Nocturnal movements and squeaking sounds.

How to Address a Rodent Problem

If you notice any of the above signs or suspect you have a rodent issue, it’s essential to act quickly. DIY solutions often fail to resolve the root of the problem, allowing rodents to return.

Cypress Creek Pest Control to the Rescue

At Cypress Creek Pest Control, we specialize in understanding the behaviors and biology of rodents, allowing us to provide effective, long-lasting solutions. Here’s how we can help:

1. Comprehensive Inspection

Our trained technicians will thoroughly inspect your property to identify entry points, nesting sites, and the extent of the infestation.

2. Customized Treatment Plan

Based on our findings, we’ll create a tailored plan to eliminate rodents from your property using methods that are safe for your family and pets.

3. Prevention Strategies

We don’t just stop at removal. Our team will seal entry points, provide expert advice on storing food and securing trash, and offer ongoing monitoring to keep your home rodent-free.

4. Expertise You Can Trust

With over 50 years of experience and serving more than 12,000 Houston homes, Cypress Creek Pest Control is a trusted name in pest management. Our goal is to give you peace of mind with quality service.

Proactive Tips to Keep Rodents Away

While professional pest control is the most effective solution, there are steps you can take to prevent rodents from entering your home or business.

• Seal Cracks and Holes: Inspect your property for gaps or cracks and seal them with caulk, steel wool, or metal mesh.
• Store Food Properly: Keep food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs or spills immediately.
• Eliminate Clutter: Minimize clutter around your home, especially in storage areas where rodents may hide.
• Maintain Your Yard: Trim back trees and shrubs near your property, and avoid letting trash or debris pile up.

Protect Your Home from Rodents Today

Rodents are more than just an inconvenience—they are a serious concern for your health and property. Don’t wait until a small issue turns into a full-blown infestation.

At Cypress Creek Pest Control, we’re committed to keeping your home safe and pest-free year-round. Call us today or request a free estimate onlineRodents and save $50 on our Healthy House Program!