Facts About Rats & Mice

Rats and mice are give rise to the most common and serious pest problems in Malaysia. Their numbers have significantly increased in the past few years due to poor public sanitation and an abundance disposed of food that can be found in trash generated by homes, restaurants, shopping centers, and hospitals.

Biology of Rats

Rats need water and moisture to survive.

They usually do not climb and mostly crawl against the edge of walls or around open areas. They are very aggressive and can make chirping sounds as a way to intimidate predators or other rats who intrude in their space. Their chittering sound functions as a form of echo location that helps them to navigate through sewage and pipes where light is nearly absent. This is an ability that rats developed due to their weak eyesight.

Rats and mice have similar life cycles. Sexually matured females attract males using their scent that triggers mating activity. The females give birth to blind and furless babies 20-23 days from mating. After 7-10 days, the babies will open their eyes and their fur will start to grow. At this stage they are attached to their mother who breastfeeds for the next 20 days. Rats and mice will grow to be sexually matured within 2 to 3 months. On average, female rats are able to reproduce up to 7 times in a year.

Signs of infestation

Rats and mice can be detected by the presence of their droppings and urine, gnawed objects, and track-ways. Rat track-ways can be identified by body oil and dirt markings when they rub against surfaces or when they are marking their territory. Rats and mice can also be sighted as they crawl around in search of food.

Threats

Rats and mice can cause damage by gnawing on items such as wire cables which can lead to electrical interference and cause a fire outbreak. They are also able to contaminate foods that cause diseases in humans. They can be carriers for several pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and rickettsia.

If you have a problem with rats get in touch with Ridpest.