Rodent Control Perth

Rodents, a diverse group of mammals, are best known for their constantly growing incisors in both the upper and lower jaws. Commonly encountered rodents in Perth and wider Western Australia include rats, mice, and sometimes bandicoots. These creatures often seek shelter in human habitats for food and protection, which can pose numerous challenges for households and businesses alike.

Their adaptability to various environments and rapid reproduction rates mean that a small problem can quickly escalate into a significant infestation, leading to various concerns ranging from property damage to health risks.

While there are various species of rodents, the most common culprits in Perth households and businesses are the house mouse, the roof rat, and the Norway rat.

• House Mice: Small, light brown to grey in colour with a tail length similar to its body.
• Roof Rats: Sleek black or dark brown rodents with a longer tail than their body. They are excellent climbers.
• Norway Rats: Larger and stockier, with a shorter tail, they are brown or grey.

The life cycle of rodents typically includes birth as pups, maturation, and reproduction. Depending on the species and conditions, they can reproduce multiple times a year, with litters ranging from 3 to 14 young.

Rodents are notorious for the range of problems they cause. Their need to gnaw can lead to considerable property damage — they can chew through electrical wires, wood, and even some types of metal. This not only harms structures but poses a fire hazard.

Health-wise, rodents can transmit various diseases to humans, such as leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and rat-bite fever, either directly through bites, or indirectly through urine, faeces, or fleas they carry.

Moreover, the presence of rodents can lead to reputational damage, especially for businesses. A rodent sighting in, say, a restaurant can lead to lost customers and negative reviews.

• Store food in sealed containers, ensuring no easy access.
• Regularly clean up food scraps and crumbs.
• Seal gaps, holes, and cracks in walls, doors, and floors to deter entry.
• Remove potential nesting sites, including cluttered areas or piled-up yard waste.
• Ensure bins are sealed and garbage is disposed of regularly.

Over-the-counter traps, like snap traps or live-catch traps, can be effective for small infestations. There are also various rodent baits available, but these must be used with caution, especially around children and pets. Ultrasound devices have been marketed as deterrents, but their efficacy is debated.