Mouse vs. Rat – Differences

Mouse vs. Rat and Ways To Tell The Difference

Now that the colder weather is approaching, certain small animals and rodents may want to inhabit your home. Mice and rats will likely try to get into your house to find a warm, safe place to live. Of course, this doesn’t mean that people welcome the rodents. They carry a number of diseases. And, needless to say, it’s just not comfortable to have a rodent in your house that isn’t a pet! Here are some ways to tell the difference between these two animals. There are also a few solutions you can take advantage of to keep your home rodent-free.

Characteristics of Rats and Mice

If you can’t tell the difference between a baby rat or mouse, there are some ways to distinguish these rodents. The two animals do look significantly different, but they also have food and living preferences. Mice and rats also behave differently. So, the measures you would take to control mice may not work with rats, and vice versa.

Norway rats, house mice, and roof rats are the most common rodent pests in the United States. The mousetraps that work for mice will likely not work for rats, which are larger. Even if you set up rat traps in the house, they may not be effective for roof rats. That’s because these rodents tend to live on higher levels, often near the roof or attic.

Rats also behave differently than mice. These rodents are very observant. They will avoid new obstacles or items until they have become accustomed to them. This is why putting unset traps around the rats before setting them will help you catch the rodents. Mice are curious by nature and run toward new and interesting things. To catch mice, put the traps in their path right away. If you don’t catch anything, this is likely a sign that the mice have moved to a new spot.

When it comes to a field mouse vs. a rat, you’re likely wondering “what does a baby mouse look like?” One of the main things to remember is the head of the mouse is smaller, but its ears are bigger. It’s also important to note that a baby rat and a full-grown mouse are usually the same sizes. If you see a baby rat, you’ll know the rodent is a rat because of its oversized feet and head. Mice also have pointy facial features, while rats have stubby faces, particularly when they are young.

Rat vs. Mouse Droppings

One of the ways you can tell whether a rodent has been in your home is droppings. The droppings of both animals are black and small. Mouse droppings are rod-shaped. Rat droppings have the shape of a capsule, in most cases. If there are roof rats on your property, you’ll see spindle-shaped droppings.

Types of Mice to Look Out For

As the name suggests, the house mouse is likely to find a spot in your home to get comfortable. Field mice are likely hidden in open fields and plains. However, they also live wherever humans thrive. This means you could find the rodent in sheds and barns, as well as areas of the house. Deer mice may be on your property as well. These deer mice sometimes come into homes. However, they prefer to live in areas where there are no people, such as tree stumps. These mice also live under piles of wood or rocks.

If you see rats or mice in or around your home, it’s best to call an exterminator right away. The professional team at NJ Pest is here to help. For expert extermination services, contact NJ Pest today. We are located in Randolph, NJ in Morris County and will be happy to help you within Morris County and the surrounding counties.