Rodent Control in Bellingham, WA

Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Rodents are nocturnal and secretive, so you may never see one directly. However, they leave plenty of clues that can alert you to their presence. 

Watch for these telltale signs of rats and mice:

• Droppings. Finding small, dark droppings in drawers, cupboards, or along walls is one of the most common indicators. The size and shape can help determine whether you're dealing with mice or rats.
• Gnaw marks. Rodents' teeth constantly grow, so they chew on things to keep them trim. Look for gnaw marks on food packaging, baseboards, and wires.
• Scratching noises. Hearing scampering, scratching, or squeaking sounds in your walls or ceiling, especially at night, is a strong indicator of rodent activity.
• Nests. Rodents build nests out of shredded materials like paper, fabric, or insulation. You might find these in hidden, undisturbed areas like behind appliances or in the back of closets.
• Rub marks. Rats and mice tend to travel along the same paths, often leaving greasy rub marks along walls and baseboards from the dirt and oil on their fur.

If you spot any of these signs, it's time to act. Contact our team! We can identify and eliminate the problem quickly and safely.

Meet the Norway Rat: A Common Intruder in Washington Homes

The Norway rat is the largest and most common rat found in the Pacific Northwest. Also known as a brown or sewer rat, it's a stocky rodent that's surprisingly well-adapted to living alongside humans. They're excellent scavengers and will eat almost anything they find.

Norway rats are burrowers, often making their nests in the ground under buildings, in crawlspaces, or along foundations. They're primarily active at night and can travel up to 300 feet from their nest to find food and water. Because they often live so close to us, they're a significant concern for spreading diseases to your family. 

Why does this matter? Understanding Norway rat behavior is crucial for effective control. Because they burrow near foundations and travel such distances, a simple trap or two won't solve the problem. They require a comprehensive approach addressing the visible infestation and the hidden entry points they use. 

Bio Bug Pest Management uses this knowledge to develop targeted strategies that eliminate current populations and prevent future invasions. Our IPM methods focus on removing what attracts them, blocking their access routes, and using pet and kid-safe treatments that work.