RODENTS

Rodents comprise about a third of all living mammal species. Their most characteristic structural feature is the dentition. Rodents have two large curved incisors in the upper jaw and two in the lower jaw, and these are separated from the remaining teeth by a toothless gap. The actual gnawing is carried out primarily by the lower incisors, while the upper incisors serve to hold the head in position. The shape and size of the toothmarks provide a clue to the identity of the species which has been at work.

Signs of rodents in and around rooms and buildings

Droppings along well pathways, in feeding areas and near the rodents shelter.
Droppings may be as long as 3/4 inch and up to 1/4 inch in diameter. Fresh droppings are soft.
Tracks, including footprints and tails marks, on dusty surfaces, in mud or snow.
Urine along pathways or in feeding areas.
Smudge or rub marks on beams, rafters, walls, pipes, and other fixtures.
Gnawing marks on doors or ledges, in corners, in wall material, on stored materials or on other surfaces.
Noises in the walls caused by gnawing, climbing, clawing, squeaks, and fighting; particularly at night when rodents are the most active.