What Exactly Is a Rodent? Facts from a Rodent Remover

Rodent Remover Young Rats

Rodents come in many shapes and sizes, but there are some characteristics that all rodents have in common. When you think of rodents, you probably think of mice and rats. However, rodents are more than just these two common pests that you need a rodent remover for. Animal Remover discusses facts about rodents in today’s blog.

Many Rodents

There are more than 4,600 species of rodents on Earth, making up nearly half of all types of mammals. Rodents easily spread diseases around the world. Diseases are why you should talk to a rodent remover as soon as possible after finding an infestation in your home.

Related Post: Wildlife Management: How to Rodent-Proof Your Home

Sharp Teeth

Four sharp front teeth are what sets rodents apart from other types of mammals. Every kind of rodent has two upper and two lower teeth at the front of their mouths. The teeth, called incisors, are large and grow continuously throughout the life of a rodent. Strong incisors allow rodents to chew through all kinds of materials to make nests. A nest in your home is one sign you need a rodent remover.

Three Main Types of Rodents

Scientists classify rodents into three main groups. Mouse-like rodents are the most numerous kind of rodents. This group contains mice and rats, but also hamsters, gerbils, muskrats, voles, and lemmings. Squirrel-like rodents include squirrels, chipmunks, gophers, groundhogs, and beavers. The third group of rodents classifies porcupine-like creatures such as porcupines, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and capybaras. Your home might see infestations of mice, rats, or squirrels, in which case you need a rodent remover. Your surrounding property may contain these pests along with gophers and groundhogs. If you live near water, you probably see muskrats and beavers.

Various Sizes

The smallest rodent in the world is the Baluchistan pygmy jerboa. This tiny creature is only 1.7 inches long and weighs 1/10th of an ounce. Capybaras, the largest rodents on Earth, can weigh up to 145 pounds and grow to 4-½ long. Don’t worry: capybaras only live in South America, so don’t expect to need a rodent remover for these creatures in Greater Cincinnati.   

Lots of Babies

One reason to call a rodent remover is that rodents multiply quickly and get out of hand in a few weeks. Female house mice can have up to 10 litters per year, with an average litter of six mice. Mice reach maturity in just four weeks, which means those babies can reproduce quickly. It takes mice only 21 days to give birth once the litter starts growing inside the mother.

Related Post: Wildlife Control Tips for Keeping Rodents Out of Your Fireplace

Contact an Expert Rodent Remover

As soon as you see rodents in your home, whether you have mice, rats, or squirrels, call a rodent remover. The experts at Animal Remover can suggest the most efficient and humane way to eradicate these pests from your home. Call us today at (513) 324-9453 or contact us through our online form to discuss your options.

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