Rodent activity calls for more than removing the animal you see. Identifying the rodent, reducing food and shelter, and addressing access points are separate parts of preventing a repeat problem.
Exo Pest Solutions provides rodent control and rodent exclusion for homes and businesses in Santa Clara, San Mateo and Alameda counties. Each property requires an individual quote defining the work included.
Rats and mice: useful identification clues
| Rodent | Appearance | Typical activity |
|---|---|---|
| Roof rat | Slender body and a tail longer than the head and body combined. | Climbing, elevated shelter and attic activity. |
| Norway rat | Stockier body and a shorter tail relative to the head and body. | Burrows, ground-level shelter and foundations. |
| House mouse | Smaller body with relatively large ears. | Stored food, clutter and sheltered indoor nesting. |
Location alone does not confirm the species. Young rats can be mistaken for mice, and not every small rodent is a house mouse. Do not handle a live rodent to identify it.
Signs to look for
- Droppings near stored food or along travel routes.
- Gnawed packaging, wiring or structural materials.
- Scratching noises, nesting material or rub marks.
- Burrows or repeated sightings around waste and landscaping.
Keep people and pets away from contaminated areas. Avoid disturbing droppings or nesting material while you arrange appropriate cleanup advice.
Practical prevention
- Store food, animal feed and rubbish in secure containers.
- Remove fallen fruit, spilled seed and accessible pet food.
- Reduce clutter and inspect storage areas regularly.
- Check door gaps, vent screens and utility openings from a safe position.
- Arrange assessment of active access routes rather than covering openings without a plan.
Rodents can chew through many soft repair materials. Entry-point repairs must suit the building and preserve ventilation and other safety requirements. Do not climb onto roofs or approach utility lines to investigate.
Control versus exclusion
Rodent control addresses current activity. Exclusion seals identified entry points. A quote should state which openings will be sealed and whether trapping, cleanup, repairs or follow-up are included.
Exo Pest Solutions’ two-year rodent exclusion warranty covers only the entry points it seals. It does not cover other work or new damage.
When to ask for help
Request an assessment for repeated droppings, attic noises, damaged wiring or activity in food-storage areas. Tell us whether the property is occupied, whether pets are present and which areas are affected.
Can an ultrasonic device solve the problem?
UC IPM does not consider ultrasonic devices effective control for established rats or house mice. Do not rely on them instead of identifying entry routes and removing food and shelter.
Request a Free Quote
Tell us about your property and pest problem. Your request goes to Exo Pest Solutions.
References: University of California IPM: Rats; House Mouse. Sources checked October 15, 2026. Identification and work scope require confirmation.