Identifying the signs of a rodent infestation

Rodents are a common pest to infest occupied premises and don't make for a hygienic or productive workplace. Did you know that mice can leave about 80 droppings a day!  Most infestations are reported following a sighting of live rodents but at this instance the infestation has usually been present for many weeks. 

There are a number of signs to indicate their presence which can often be found at the early stages of infestation.   

Things to look out for are:

• Droppings - rat droppings are small blunt spindle shaped measuring about 10-20 millimetres long and mice droppings are rod shaped and 3-6 millimetres long;  
• Nesting material (small pieces of chewed paper and plastic) often found at base of draw units, service cupboards and store rooms;
• Smell - a musty smell similar to a damp unventilated area or wet hay or straw; 
• Noises - You're more likely to hear them at night.  You'll hear squeaks, rustling and scampering sounds as they make their way around. 
• Damaged or spoilt food - did you know mice will eat most foods before they will eat cheese?  Favourites include chocolate, peanuts and cooking fat!  
• Grease marks - rodents often leave a black or dark grey smear of body grease when regularly running over surfaces such as conduit or pipes.  

Are alarm bells ringing? Do you recognise the signs? Contact us now on 0845 017 1069 or email us at mpc.info@mitie.com.