Rats and mice are ubiquitous pests that have colonised suburbia and commercial premises across the country. They usually inhabit roofs, floors or other cavities and openings in buildings, where they live and breed. Rodent infestations are a health hazard as they carry fleas, lice and diseases which are a potential health hazard in the home and for commercial outlets where food is stored or prepared. They can also cause significant structural damage to buildings, and are especially fond of gnawing electrical wiring with their teeth. Rodents are most active at night when they leave their holes to search for food. They will typically betray their presence by their nocturnal activity where droppings, urine and any litter generated by their feeding activity will be obvious.

Pest control consultants are best qualified to attend to a serious rodent infestation of your property. Rats and mice are usually controlled by capture or poisoning. Poison comes in solid or liquid form and is placed in strategic locations throughout a property. Non-lethal methods typically used to catch rodents are snap traps and glue traps.

Limiting access and opportunities for rats and mice to feed will help to contribute to a rodent free home. This includes following these simple steps:

• seal all openings in your home or premises, particularly in the floor and roof areas
• keep all food and garbage areas as clean as possible
• limit the amount of free standing water on your property or premises

Note that rodent poison is potentially lethal to humans and should only be handled by licensed pest control technicians.