Rats Archives - Beaver Pest Control

Rodent Control and Proofing: The Best Ways to Protect Your Home

Rodent control and proofing are crucial for homeowners looking to protect their properties from mice and rats. Infestations can cause damage and pose serious health risks. Whether you’re dealing with a current infestation or aiming to prevent one, understanding rodent control and rodent proofing is essential. This guide will help you navigate effective mouse and rodent control solutions and find the best services near you.

What is Rodent Control?

Rodent control refers to the process of eliminating and preventing mice and rats from invading your home. Effective pest control and rodent control measures include trapping, baiting, and sealing entry points. If you’re searching for rodent control near me, consider professional rodent control services that provide thorough inspections and customised treatment plans. Learn more about UK government pest control guidelines for further guidance.

What Are the Best Rodent Control Methods?

The most effective rodent control involves a combination of tactics:

Inspection: Identifying signs of infestation, such as droppings and gnawed wires.
Exclusion: Sealing entry points with rodent proofing materials like steel wool, rodent proofing mesh, and sealants.
Trapping and Baiting: Using snap traps or bait stations.
Sanitation: Removing food sources and clutter that attract rodents.

Rodent Control Responsibility in Rental Properties

For renters, determining who is responsible for rodent control in a rental property depends on UK tenancy agreements. Generally, landlords are responsible for ensuring the property is habitable, which includes addressing significant infestations. However, tenants must maintain cleanliness to prevent issues. Read more about tenant and landlord responsibilities.

Rodent Control Costs in London

The cost of rodent control varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the treatment method used. On average:

One-time rodent control services: £200 – £350 (based on 2 visits carried out)
Ongoing rodent pest control services: £30 – £90 per month If you’re wondering how much does rodent pest control cost, getting quotes from multiple providers is the best way to determine a fair price.

What is Rodent Proofing?

Rodent proofing is the process of sealing potential entry points to prevent mice and rats from entering your home. This proactive approach reduces the chances of future infestations. Common rodent proofing materials include wire mesh, caulk, and rodent proofing paste.

Proofing is an essential tool for any pest controller, but it is not 100% effective. It is common for rodents to be displaced to alternative routes, meaning that proofing may need to be revisited at a later date. Mice, in particular, can squeeze through holes as small as 5mm (about the size of a pencil), making complete exclusion challenging. Regular inspections and follow-up treatments are often necessary to ensure long-term success.

How Much Does Proofing Cost in London?

The cost of rodent proofing varies based on the size of the home and the extent of the work needed:

Basic rodent proofing services: £250 – £600
Extensive proofing (attic and crawl space rodent proofing): £800 – £2,500
Specialist proofing: this will vary depending on the work needed. It’s always best to have a professional survey and detailed quotation provided to ensure you are clear on the work needed.

Finding a Pest Controller Near You

If you’re looking for local rodent proofing services in London, look for companies specialising in attic cleaning rodent proofing and crawl space rodent proofing. Look for companies offering services like attic cleaning and crawl space sealing to comprehensively tackle rodent problems. Check out BPCA-approved pest control services to find a trusted professional near you.

Investing in professional rodent control and proofing is essential for maintaining a pest-free home. Whether you’re dealing with an active infestation or want to fortify your home against future invasions, investing in rodent control services and rodent proofing services is a smart choice. If you’re searching for the best rodent control near me, consider hiring professionals for a comprehensive and lasting solution.

How to Identify and Prevent Rats and Mice in Your Home

Residential

Rats and mice can quickly turn from a minor annoyance to a major problem in any home, especially in high-density areas like London. These pests are not only a nuisance but can also pose health risks by contaminating food and spreading disease. The good news? With the right knowledge, you can easily identify whether you have a rodent issue and take steps to prevent them from entering your home.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the key differences between rats and mice, how to identify them based on droppings and other signs, and provide simple prevention tips. Plus, we’ve included a helpful video that explains everything you need to know about keeping rodents out of your home.

Watch Our Rodent Identification and Prevention Video

To make it easier for you to spot the signs of rats or mice in your home and learn how to prevent them, we’ve created a short video. In this video, we cover how to tell whether you have rats or mice based on their behaviour, appearance, and droppings, as well as tips to stop them from entering your home.

Watch the video below for a full guide:

Rats vs Mice: How to Identify Which One You Have

Rats and mice may seem similar at first glance, but there are some key differences that will help you determine which one you’re dealing with:

Size and Appearance:
Mice are much smaller than rats, typically around 3-10 cm long, with large ears and a thin tail. Rats, on the other hand, are larger (15-40 cm long), with thicker bodies and blunt noses.
Droppings:
One of the most common signs of a rodent problem is droppings. Mouse droppings are small, shaped like grains of rice, and scattered in multiple areas. Rat droppings are larger, about the size of a raisin, and tend to be found in groups in one spot.
Behaviour:
Mice are curious and tend to explore multiple areas of your home, while rats are more cautious, sticking to familiar paths and often staying close to their nests.

Identifying which rodent you have is important because rats and mice behave differently and require different approaches to control.

Rodent Prevention Tips

Once you’ve identified a rodent problem, it’s important to take immediate steps to prevent them from entering your home or returning. Here are some practical tips you can implement right away:

Seal Entry Points: Rodents can squeeze through even the smallest of gaps — a mouse only needs a hole the size of a pencil to get in! Check your walls, doors, windows, and any cracks in the foundation. Seal any holes with wire mesh or caulk to block their entry.
Store Food Properly: Rodents are always on the lookout for food, so be sure to store yours in sealed containers. Clean up crumbs, spills, and keep countertops clear.
Secure Your Bins: Rats and mice are often attracted to overflowing bins. Make sure your bins are tightly sealed, especially outside. It’s also important to keep your rubbish area clean to reduce the risk of attracting them.
Declutter and Clean Regularly: Rodents love clutter as it provides them with places to hide. Regularly vacuum and keep your home tidy, especially in areas like attics, basements, and under furniture.

How Beaver Pest Control Can Help

If you’re struggling with a rodent infestation, or if you’re unsure whether you have rats or mice, Beaver Pest Control is here to help. We offer a range of professional rodent control services, including:

Expert Identification:
Not sure if you’ve got rats or mice? Our team can help identify the pest using our Pest Identification Tool. Simply upload a picture of the pest or droppings, and our experts will advise you on the next steps.
Advanced Proofing Solutions:
Our proofing services help keep rodents out for good. We seal up entry points, install barriers, and give you expert advice on how to keep your home rodent-free.
Safe and Effective Traps and Treatments:
We use safe, humane, and effective traps and treatments to get rid of rodents and prevent them from returning. Our treatments are designed to suit the specific type of rodent and level of infestation in your home.

Final Thoughts

Rodents are more than just a nuisance — they can damage your home and pose a risk to your health. But by taking the right steps to identify the problem and implement simple prevention measures, you can protect your home and restore peace of mind.

Remember, Beaver Pest Control is always here to help if you need professional assistance. From expert identification using our innovative Pest Identification Tool to safe and effective treatments, we’re dedicated to keeping your home rodent-free.

If you think you have a rodent problem or just want to take precautions, contact us today to schedule an inspection or get more information about our services.

Signs of a Rat Infestation: How to Identify Baby Rats and Other Clues

Commercial

Rats can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, posing health risks and structural issues. Recognising the early signs of a rat infestation, including identifying baby rats, can help you take action before the problem grows. Here’s what you need to know to spot the signs and respond effectively.

1. Identifying Baby Rats: What They Look Like and Where to Find Them

Baby rats, also known as pups, are a clear sign that rats are breeding and settling in your space. Here’s what to look for:

Appearance: Baby rats are small, typically around 1–3 inches in length when they’re first born. They have pink, hairless skin, and their eyes are closed until they’re a few days old. As they grow, they develop soft fur, and their eyes open, resembling adult rats but on a smaller scale.
Location: Baby rats are often found in nests, which rats build in hidden, warm areas. Common nesting spots include behind walls, in attics, basements, or near insulation. Check dark, quiet spaces where rats can reproduce undisturbed.

Identifying baby rats early can prevent a full-scale infestation, as these young rats will quickly grow, breed, and multiply.

2. Other Signs of a Rat Infestation

In addition to spotting baby rats, there are several other signs that indicate a rat infestation in your home or business. Look out for these clues:

Droppings: Rat droppings are often one of the first signs of an infestation. They are small, capsule-shaped, and dark in colour, typically found near food sources, nesting areas, or along pathways rats frequently travel. Fresh droppings are soft and moist, while older ones are hard and dry.
Gnaw Marks: Rats constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp. Look for chewed wires, furniture, insulation, or wooden structures. Newer gnaw marks are lighter in colour, while older ones are darker.
Nests and Shredded Materials: Rats build nests using shredded paper, fabric, insulation, and other soft materials. If you find piles of shredded items in secluded areas, it’s a likely sign that rats are nesting nearby.
Footprints and Tail Marks: In dusty areas, you might see rat footprints or tail marks. Rats have small, clawed feet that leave distinctive prints, and their tails leave long, sweeping marks in the dust. A quick way to detect recent activity is to sprinkle a thin layer of flour or talcum powder and check for tracks the next day.
Grease Marks: Rats have oily fur, which can leave dark smudges or grease marks along walls and baseboards where they frequently travel. These marks often appear as dark streaks and indicate their regular pathways.
Scratching Noises: Rats are typically active at night. You might hear scratching or scurrying noises in walls, ceilings, or floors, especially in the attic or basement. These sounds often signal movement to and from their nests.

3. Health Risks of a Rat Infestation

Rats carry diseases and parasites that can pose serious health risks to humans. Some common diseases associated with rats include leptospirosis, salmonella, and hantavirus. In addition, rat droppings, urine, and dander can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, particularly in sensitive individuals.

By identifying an infestation early, you can protect yourself and your family from these health risks.

4. How to Handle a Rat Infestation

Once you’ve identified signs of a rat infestation, it’s essential to act quickly. Here’s what you can do:

Seal Entry Points: Rats can squeeze through very small gaps, so inspect your home or building for cracks, holes, or gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and vents. Seal these with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to block entry.
Eliminate Food Sources: Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills immediately, and ensure bins are tightly sealed. Avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Set Traps: For minor infestations, use traps in areas where you’ve seen signs of rats. Place them along walls and in dark areas. Opt for humane traps if preferred, or use snap traps for quicker results.
Contact a Professional: For larger infestations or quicker results, a professional pest control service can provide a thorough inspection, safe removal, and ongoing prevention measures. They can also check for nests and hard-to-reach entry points.

Conclusion

Rats can quickly become a serious issue if left unchecked, so it’s vital to recognise the signs early. By learning how to identify baby rats and other clues, you can act promptly to remove them and prevent further damage. If you suspect an infestation or find signs of rats in your property, take steps to secure your space or contact a professional for assistance. Swift action can make all the difference in keeping your home or business rat-free and safe.

Top 10 Household Pests

Residential

Our homes are considered our safe spaces, but unfortunately, sometimes our peace and safety are at risk from pests. Whether it’s rats, mice, bed bugs or other pests; dealing with household pests can be a challenge. Here’s a list of the top 10 household pests that might be unwelcome guests in your living space:

Mice
Rats
Birds
Bed Bugs
Squirrels
Wasps
Cockroaches
Fleas
Moths
Flies

MICE

Mice are common household pests known for their ability to squeeze through tiny gaps, our rule of thumb is that if you can fit a pencil through it a mouse can get through! They can contaminate food, spread diseases, and cause damage by gnawing on various materials.

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BED BUGS

Bed bugs are notorious for causing sleepless nights with their bites. These tiny, reddish-brown insects hide in cracks and crevices around beds. Bed bugs are common across the world and increases in travel have allowed bed bugs to spread wide and far.

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COCKROACHES

Cockroaches thrive in warm, moist areas and are attracted to food preparation areas. They are often found in kitchens or boiler cupboards. There are two common types of cockroaches in the UK; German Cockroaches and Oriental Cockroaches.

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RATS

Rats are larger than mice and pose similar threats to health and property. 90% of rat infestations are linked to drain defects hence the more common name of “sewer rats”. Rats are neophobic (scared of new objects in the environment) making treatment tricky especially if the underlying entry points aren’t found and sealed.

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SQUIRRELS

Squirrels can enter homes looking for shelter, especially during colder months. They are known to use overhanging branches to gain access to your roof and make themselves at home in attic spaces. When cornered, squirrels can be aggressive and very destructive.

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FLEAS

Fleas often enter your homes from your pets. Cat fleas are the most common flea in the UK but other animals are prone to fleas. Once in our homes, fleas will rapidly multiply by feeding on your pets and you. Fleas will lay larvae in your carpets, bedding and soft furnishings making eradication tricky.

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FLIES

Flies are not only annoying but also carry food-poisoning bacteria. There are a number of common fly species in the UK; whether you are dealing with bluebottles, fruit flies or drain flies, it’s important not to ignore the risks associated with them.

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URBAN BIRDS

While birds might seem harmless, they can become pests when nesting in under your solar panels or window ledges. Birds can cause health risks when guano (droppings) build-up. Guano can damage your building materials, harbour harmful bacteria and pathogens, and create slip hazards.

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WASPS

Wasps can be aggressive and can cause life-threatening stings to those allergic. Wasps will create nests in your garden, wall cavities, attic spaces and even underground. Wasp nests are most active between the summer months; June and August.

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MOTHS

Common clothes moths can be tricky to deal with. The moth caterpillars, known as “woolly bears” due to their hairy exterior are what cause the damage to clothes. They will feed on textiles and fabric to grow and are often left unnoticed until damage has been done.

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As a homeowner, being proactive in identifying, preventing, and controlling household pests is essential. We would always recommend you seek professional pest control services to deal with rodents and insects effectively. Call us on 020 8355 3443 to get advice or book a professional visit today.

Revolutionising Drain Services: A Journey of Innovation and Excellence by Beaver Pest Control

Commercial

In a remarkable turn of events, Beaver Pest Control emerged victorious at the inaugural NADC National Drain Awards evening. Shortlisted for Innovation and Specialist Service, the company’s Director, David Lodge, shares the journey and success that led to this prestigious recognition.

A Comprehensive Approach to Drain Services

Beaver Pest Control, traditionally known for pest control, has recently expanded its services to become a one-stop solution for all drain-related concerns. We estimate that 80-90% of call-outs involve rats originating from drains. Stepping across into the drainage industry was a natural path.

We use high-power jet washing to clean drains, followed by a thorough CCTV check. The result is a detailed viewline report, transparently outlining ingress points and defects in the drainage system.

Our commitment to solving drain issues extends beyond eradicating rats. Through methods like capping, local repair works, patching, or lining, we aim to eliminate not only pests but also associated problems such as drain fly issues and unpleasant odours. While one-way valves are sparingly used, we offer maintenance contracts for their use.

Leading the Industry with Innovation

In addition to its recent award, Beaver Pest Control has actively contributed to industry standards. We collaborated with the BPCA, Davy Brown, and the NADC to create the BPCA Code of Best Practice for Drain Surveys. This comprehensive reference document showcases Beaver’s dedication to excellence in the industry.

The journey to offering this complete drain service was not without challenges. The company invested significantly in training and state-of-the-art equipment. Without doubt, the initial expense has helped our Drain Team to propel the division’s growth.

Shaping the Future of Drain and Pest Industries

Looking ahead, Beaver Pest Control has set ambitious goals. The company aims to secure the coveted NADC Drain Safe accreditation while fostering a closer relationship between the drain and pest control industries. Following this success, we envision further collaboration to enhance both sectors.

Influence on the Drain and Pest Industry

Reflecting on their impact, we have identified key contributions to the industry:

Comprehensive Solutions: The company has pioneered an umbrella solution to a prevalent customer frustration—rat infestations.
Resourceful Specialisation: Beaver demonstrates that specialisation and innovation don’t always require extensive resources. Through education, dedication, hard work, and a strong vision, the company has proven that smaller entities can lead in their fields.
Industry Leadership: Beaver’s specialisation has extended beyond its company and customers, influencing the wider sector. Contributions include the development of codes of best practice for CCTV drain surveys, solidifying their commitment to industry excellence.

In conclusion, Beaver Pest Control’s journey from a newcomer to an award-winning force in the drain and pest control industry showcases the power of innovation, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. As the company looks to the future, its influence on industry practices is set to endure and evolve.

Find out more about CCTV Drain Surveys

A Year of Pests: Seasonal Pest Patterns in the UK

Residential

Pests are a persistent challenge throughout the year, but their activity levels often experience distinct spikes in different seasons. Certain pests become more prevalent during specific times, requiring tailored strategies for effective management. In this guide, we’ll delve into the seasonal patterns of pests in the UK, offering valuable insights on how to identify, prevent, and address these issues.

Spring: New Pests

As spring emerges, so do insects. Carpet beetles and moths come to the forefront, causing concerns for homeowners.

Carpet Beetles

These tiny invaders have a knack for infesting carpets, upholstery, and stored fabrics. Their activity peaks in spring, with their larvae feasting on natural fibres. To tackle carpet beetle infestations:

Regularly vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture.
Store clothing and fabrics in airtight containers to limit access.

Moths

Spring is also a prime time for moths, especially clothes moths and SPI moths. These pests can damage clothing and food supplies. Effective moth management involves:

Storing clothing in moth-proof bags or containers.
Ensuring food items are sealed tightly in airtight containers.
Check lofts for bird nests. Insects often originate from nests.

Summer: Prolific Pest Activity

Summer brings an upsurge in pest activity, both indoors and outdoors. Flies, wasps, ants, mosquitoes, and bedbugs become particularly active during this season, creating a range of nuisances.

Mosquitoes

With higher temperatures and humidity, mosquitoes thrive during summer, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. To mitigate the mosquito problem:

Eliminate any standing water sources around your property.
Wear protective clothing and use insect repellent when outdoors.

Bedbugs

While a year-round concern, bedbug activity intensifies in summer due to increased travel. Manage bedbug infestations by:

Regularly checking and cleaning upholstered furniture and bedding.
Exercising caution when selecting lodging during travel.

Ants

Warmer temperatures prompt ants to seek food sources indoors. Prevent ant invasions by:

Sealing crevices and openings that ants could exploit.
Properly storing food in airtight containers.

Wasps

Throughout summer, wasps construct nests in various outdoor spaces. These nests can pose risks, especially in areas with human activity. Control wasps by:

Regularly inspecting your property for nests and dealing with them.
Exercising caution in wasp-prone areas.

Flies

Flies thrive in the warmth of summer, proving to be a nuisance both indoors and outdoors. Keep them at bay by:

Using fly screens on windows and entrances.
Maintaining tidy outdoor spaces and minimising exposed food.

Autumn: New Pest Challenges

Autumn introduces a fresh wave of pest activity, with fleas, spiders, and rodents taking the spotlight.

Fleas

Cool and damp autumn weather creates ideal conditions for fleas to flourish. Combat fleas by:

Treating pets for fleas regularly and employing prevention measures.
Regularly cleaning pet bedding and living areas.

Spiders

As autumn approaches, spiders seek warmth indoors. While most spiders are harmless, their presence can be unsettling. Manage spiders by:

Sealing gaps in windows and doors to limit entry.
Keeping indoor spaces clutter-free to reduce hiding spots.

Rodents

With dropping temperatures, rodents like rats and mice become more active, seeking warmth and food. Prevent rodent infestations by:

Sealing gaps and openings in your home’s exterior.
Storing food in rodent-proof containers and using traps if needed.

Winter: Battling Cold-Weather Pests

Winter ushers in a new set of pests, including foxes and silverfish, along with continued rodent activity.

Foxes

Urban foxes can be a challenge, digging up gardens and even entering properties in search of food. Manage fox-related issues by:

Securing rubbish and compost bins to deter scavenging.
Using repellents or fencing to limit access.

Silverfish

Damp winter conditions encourage silverfish infestations, which can damage paper, fabrics, and stored items. Address silverfish problems by:

Reducing indoor humidity levels to discourage their presence.
Storing books, documents, and fabrics in dry, sealed containers.

By understanding the seasonal pest trends in the UK and adopting preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and enjoy a pest-free environment throughout the year. Whether it’s rats in winter or ants in summer, a combination of prevention, cleanliness, and targeted treatments can keep pests at bay. Embrace each season without fretting over pest-related problems, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable living space year-round.

Let’s talk about your pest problem. Call Beaver Pest Control London on 0208 355 3443

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Drain Surveys carried out by technician in home in London

National Association for Drainage Contractors

Commercial, Residential, Services

In 2021, we decided to bring CCTV drain surveys in-house and train up a team of drainage experts. The majority of rat infestations are connected to drain defects. Therefore, carrying out the surveys ourselves allowed our team to use their knowledge and experience of rat behaviour to deal with rat problems quickly.

Our drain surveys differ from your standard drainage service. As pest controllers first and foremost, we can identify issues before they escalate into a larger problem. We use specialist tools to create maps of the drainage systems. We also provide a combined drainage and pest control report showing any drainage defects as well as any rat ingress points.

Our drainage team has been growing, gaining more experience, and undergoing specialist training. We have taken the decision to join the National Association for Drainage Contractors.

Why we joined the N.A.D.C?

The N.A.D.C represents the interests of sewage and drainage operatives in the UK. As part of our membership, we will have access to more training, qualifications, and up-to-date industry news. Our work is carried out the highest standards incorporating our extensive knowledge of rat behaviour.

We are also keen to increase the presence of pest controllers in the drainage industry. As part of the industry, we will have a say in the future of drainage and can work with like-minded professionals to share knowledge and experiences and support homes and businesses across the UK to remain rat-free.

What are the next steps for drain surveys?

More jobs, more training and more technicians. Our drainage team is expanding ensuring we have a range of qualified technicians carrying out high-quality CCTV drain surveys and repairs for homes and businesses across London & the South East.

For more information about drainage and rat control london contact us.

Beaver 24/7: Digital Rodent Monitoring

Commercial

About Beaver 24/7

Beaver 24/7 is a brand new digital remote monitoring service offered by Beaver Pest Control to detect rodents quickly and efficiently. Remote monitoring uses traps connected via a network to produce alerts of rodent activity on a particular site. Expert pest professionals cannot be replaced as rodents may avoid traps and other pest problems would remain undetected, However, the technology from automated monitoring systems is invaluable for providing an alert system that works all day, 365 days a year. Together, the result is a faster response to potential infestations.

Data provided by the monitors serve as an indication to areas of significant activity across your site. When paired with a live capture trap, technician response time can be reduced enabling swift and humane rodent control. Check out our case study for more information.

Our Service

Electronic control of traps available 24/7 online through the portal either via desktop or app
In addition to your regular technical visits, Beaver 24/7 will help you comply to your required auditing standards
Trend mapping of site to locate problems areas for more efficient and long-lasting solutions
Ability to detect false-positive catches to limit unnecessary callouts resulting in potential savings
Non-toxic digital trapping provides intergrated and sustainable pest control solutions

Contact us today to see if Beaver 24/7 can help you maintain a pest-free environment in your workplace! Digital remote monitoring is an innovative approach to pest control that lets us sort any ingress before it becomes an infestation.

Humane Rodent Control

Commercial, Residential

In the UK there are four species of rodents which can be commonly found within homes and gardens: the House Mouse, Wood Mouse, Yellow-Necked Mouse and Brown Rat. Though they can cause problems within dwellings, there are a number of humane rodent control methods we can use to keep your home safe.

What do they look like?

House Mice are small rodents (between 7-9cm) and can be found in dwellings any time of the year. They often range from light to dark brown shades and can be distinguished by their almost hairless tail. By comparison the Wood Mouse (also known as a Field Mouse) is slightly larger at 8-10cm. These are the mice most commonly found across the UK. They can be distinguished by their sandy brown fur, white or grey underside, very large ears and long tail. Wood Mice are not usually found in buildings, except during winter.

Yellow-Necked Mice are restricted to rural areas in central and southern Wales and England. They are much bigger than other species of mice, ranging from 9-12cm. Despite looking similar to Wood Mice, Yellow-Neck Mice can be distinguished by a distinctive band of yellow/orange fur around the neck area, forming a bib on the chest.

Lastly, the Brown Rat (also known as the common or sewer rat) can grow between 15-27cm. Greyish-brown in colour, they have a large, slanted head with relatively small ears and an almost hairless tail.

Humane Rodent Control

Within homes and gardens rodents are attracted to food sources and shelter. Mice and rats will eat almost anything, therefore bird seed, pet food, rubbish piles, bins and compost heaps attract these rodents. However, there are ways you can humanely deter rodents from accessing your property:

Reduce access to food sources by clearing away crumbs, putting away pet food at night, sealing food (particularly foods like cereal, bread, pasta and dried pet foods) and ensuring bins/food containers are rodent-proof.
Block holes with either a strong, quick-hardening sealant or mouse mesh. Caulk, rubber and plastic fillers won’t work as rodents can easily chew through them.
Rodents are deterred by smells such as peppermint and eucalyptus, therefore by soaking cotton balls in these oils and placing them at key points (under cupboards, along work surfaces, along beams) it will help to discourage rats and mice. Remember to keep replacing the oils.
If you feed wildlife, ensure that the food is gone by the evening as rats and mice tend to be most active at night.
Remove harbourage that can provide shelter to rodents such as overgrown grass or bushes, wood piles or general clutter.
As rats and mice are neophobic (a deep fear of new things or changes), move garden furniture or other objects around your garden; new obstacles will confuse and alarm rodents used to a ‘static habitat’.

What if I continue to have rodent problems?

Sometimes, despite taking all the right precautions, people continue to have problems with mice and rats. However there a plenty of non-toxic solutions that can be opted for in lieu of traditional baiting. At Beaver Pest Control, we practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This is a sustainable approach to managing pests by combining biological, cultural, physical and chemical tools in a way that minimises economic, health, and environmental risks.

Proofing and Exclusion

The most effective use of a technician’s time is to provide proofing to close off entry points which stops pests from entering the premises. Quite often the access holes for mice and rats are hidden behind kitchen and bathroom units, but with the necessary expertise and tools, our specialist technicians can get to those difficult to reach holes.

Remote Rodent Monitoring

Remote monitoring services such as Beaver 24/7 detect rodents quickly and efficiently by using traps connected to a network to produce alerts when there is activity. As the system rely on sensors supplemented by UV tracking dust and hotspot maps, it does not require the use of toxic baiting. This reduces potential harm to non-target species.

Mechanical Trapping

Good quality break-back traps are often considered a humane form of rodent control as it kills the pest instantly, rather than prolonging any suffering. To minimise the risk to non-target animals, where possible, livestock and pets are excluded from the trapping area and the traps are set in natural or artificial tunnels.

For further advice regarding rodents in the UK, prevention, treatments and regulations surrounding rodent control, please click here: RSPCA Living with Rats & Mice

Drain surveys – drain company or pest control company?

Commercial, Residential, Services

Scenario – You have an on-going rat problem and your pest controller has advised you to carry out a drain survey. Your existing pest control company does not have the ability to carry out a drain survey.

Should you commission a drain survey company or another pest control company? Does it matter? They are all drain surveys, right?

Well yes and no.

What is a drain survey?

A drain survey should include a comprehensive inspection of your drainage system. The purpose of the drain survey is to identify any damage to the drains which could allow rodents access into your building. Common signs are when rodents are seen or damage is identified in toilets or bathrooms.

Recent studies in Denmark found that 90% of rat activity came from the sewage systems.

Following the drain survey, you should expect to receive a full written report with pictures showing the state of the drainage system. Some of these reports can be very technical and quite incomprehensible to the layperson. It is important that reports are clear and pinpoint any issues. It is also important that the remedial issues are identified and costed. Drain repairs can be very costly so it’s important that the correct issues are identified within the report.

Pest control company or drain company?

It’s true to say that both the drain company and the pest control company will use similar equipment to survey the drainage system. These include sonde’s which map the drainage system and any redundant inlets. They will both use drain cameras and will probably also use dye testing if required.

However, the pest control company will better understand the behaviour of rats and the likely points of ingress. This knowledge is key to making sure the correct areas of concern in the drainage system are identified and fixed. Missing them can be very costly.

We would recommend that you ask the following questions before commissioning a drain survey:

Can I see an example report?
How long will the survey take?
How are your engineers trained to identify rodent activity?

If you would like further advice on drain surveys, please contact 0208 355 3443 and speak to one of our friendly customer service team.

Rats

What is Rodent Control?

What Are the Best Rodent Control Methods?

Rodent Control Responsibility in Rental Properties

Rodent Control Costs in London

What is Rodent Proofing?

How Much Does Proofing Cost in London?

Finding a Pest Controller Near You

Watch Our Rodent Identification and Prevention Video

Rats vs Mice: How to Identify Which One You Have

Rodent Prevention Tips

How Beaver Pest Control Can Help

Final Thoughts

1. Identifying Baby Rats: What They Look Like and Where to Find Them

2. Other Signs of a Rat Infestation

3. Health Risks of a Rat Infestation

4. How to Handle a Rat Infestation

Conclusion

MICE

BED BUGS

COCKROACHES

RATS

SQUIRRELS

FLEAS

FLIES

URBAN BIRDS

WASPS

MOTHS

A Comprehensive Approach to Drain Services

Leading the Industry with Innovation

Shaping the Future of Drain and Pest Industries

Influence on the Drain and Pest Industry

Spring: New Pests

Summer: Prolific Pest Activity

Mosquitoes

Autumn: New Pest Challenges

Spiders

Winter: Battling Cold-Weather Pests

Why we joined the N.A.D.C?

What are the next steps for drain surveys?

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