How to Identify Rats and Mice

Mouse or rat in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Rats and mice are two of the most dreaded pest problems and for good reason. Many people group these two rodents together, but there are a number of important differences to know about. As rodents, all rat and mouse species share the common identifying feature that is their constantly growing incisor teeth. But how do they differ? Rats are obviously bigger than mice, but their differences don’t stop there. At Russell’s Pest Control, we want our customers to be well aware of the pest they are dealing with. For that reason, we are outlining all you need to know when it comes to learning how to identify rats and mice. Read on to learn more!

Rats & Mice: How to Identify Their Differences

There are a number of different rat and mouse species that are unique in their own way. That said, rats and mice, in general, can be identified through a number of ways.

  1. Rats
    • While they differ between species, rats typically have larger bodies that are about 6–9 inches.
    • Rats have small, hairy ears and larger feet.
    • Their droppings are much bigger than those of mice at 10–20 mm long.
    • Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
    • Rats are opportunistic feeders that will eat meats, grains, seeds, and much more.
  2. Mice
    • Many mice species are only 2–4 inches long.
    • Mice typically have larger ears and tails compared to their body size.
    • The droppings mice leave behind have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
    • Mice produce 5–10 litters a year with up to 14 mice in each litter.
    • Mice are omnivores but mostly feed on seeds, grains, and fruits.

Mouse or rat identification in Knoxville TN - Russell's Pest Control

Are Mice and Rats Equally Dangerous?

Rats may be bigger and more aggressive at times than mice, but both of these rodents can inflict a lot of damage to your home. Rodents nest in walls and chew on wires, which can cause a fire hazard. Their chewing and gnawing habits also drives them to target your insulation, wood structures, and more. Rodents are infamous for their ability to carry and spread a number of potentially dangerous diseases. They also can trigger allergies in people. A rodent problem can be a mess to clean up due to the amount of droppings and urine left behind. In short, you definitely don’t want to deal with rats or mice!

Identifying Rats and Mice in Knoxville TN

If you think you have rats or mice in your home, you likely don’t want to get up close and personal to identify them. For that reason, it’s best to leave the identification of rodents to the professionals. At Russell’s, our rat and mice exterminators will identify the rodent you’re dealing with, draw up a plan to get rid of them, and help keep them away for good.