Rodents are some of the most unwelcome houseguests a homeowner can face. Beyond being unsettling, they can cause structural damage, contaminate food, and spread harmful diseases. Detecting rodent activity early can help you take quick action before a minor issue turns into a full infestation. Below, we’ll cover the most common signs of rodent presence in your home and the steps you can take to address them.
Droppings and Odors
One of the first—and most obvious—signs of rodent activity is droppings. Rodent droppings are typically small, dark, and pellet-shaped, often found in cupboards, under sinks, along baseboards, or near food sources.
In addition to droppings, a strong, musky odor is a telltale sign. This smell often becomes stronger as the infestation worsens and can linger even after the rodents are gone if not properly cleaned.
Gnaw Marks and Property Damage
Rodents have strong teeth that grow continuously, meaning they must constantly gnaw to keep them filed down. This habit can cause visible damage around your home, such as:
Chewed wires and cables (which can even pose fire hazards)
Gnawed furniture, baseboards, or storage boxes
Holes in food packaging or pantry goods
If you notice new bite marks or frayed wires, it’s a clear indication that rodents may be present.
Noises and Nesting Materials
Many homeowners first notice rodent activity by sound. Scratching, scurrying, or squeaking noises behind walls, in ceilings, or under floors are common, especially at night when rodents are most active.
Rodents also build nests out of shredded materials like paper, fabric, insulation, or dried plant matter. Finding small piles of shredded material tucked away in hidden spaces is another warning sign of an infestation.
Grease Marks and Runways
As rodents repeatedly travel the same paths along walls, baseboards, or behind furniture, they often leave behind greasy rub marks from the oils in their fur. These tracks, combined with droppings or gnaw marks, can help you pinpoint high-traffic areas where rodents are most active.
How to Address a Rodent Problem
If you’ve identified one or more of these signs, it’s important to take action quickly:
Seal Entry Points – Inspect your home’s exterior for small cracks or gaps. Rodents can squeeze through holes as small as a dime, so sealing even tiny spaces is critical.
Maintain Cleanliness – Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills right away, and remove clutter that can serve as nesting material.
Set Traps – Snap traps or bait stations can help in small cases, but they may not solve larger infestations.
Call the Experts – Professional pest control is the most effective way to eliminate rodents and prevent them from returning. Experts can identify hidden entry points, locate nests, and safely remove infestations.
Protect Your Home Today
Rodents are more than a nuisance—they’re a threat to your health and property. If you’ve noticed signs of rodent activity in your home, don’t wait for the problem to grow. Contact Shoop's Texas Termite & Pest Control today at (940) 289-8079 for expert rodent control solutions and peace of mind.