Simple preventive measures keep rodents out.
Rats and mice are a nuisance virtually everywhere, including in California. Although rodent infestation is usually associated with poor sanitation, even clean homes can suffer the furry little creatures. The presence of mice and rats is not only unpalatable to most people; it may also present health concerns.
California Rodent Species
The two most common rodent species in California are the Norway rat and the roof rat. Both are introduced species, meaning they're not native to the state. Norway rats (also referred to as "sewer rats") are fat, brown rats who burrow along building foundations, wood piles and meadows and fields. Roof rats are smaller, gray or white in color, with long ears. Roof rats stick to enclosed spaces like attics and cabinets, and gravitate toward the warmer, coastal areas of California.
Urban Infestation
California's cities have a persistent problem with rat and mice infestation. In San Diego, Los Angeles, Sacramento and beyond, it's not uncommon to spot rats or mice in apartments, offices or public areas such as subway tunnels. Cities are especially susceptible to rodent problems because of their population density and garbage collection issues.
Suburban Infestation
While rats and mice are sometimes regarded as an urban problem, suburbanites are not immune. Indeed, the Norway rat is drawn to suburban-friendly habitats such as open fields and wood piles. As in cities, suburban families may find that the creatures gravitate toward dirty or unkempt homes, or homes where food is improperly secured.
Pest Control
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation recommends a number of preventive measures to keep rats and mice out of your home. These include storing pet food in sealable containers, removing tree limbs near the building, and sealing cracks in the exterior of the house. It considers a number of rodenticides as acceptable for use, although does not recommend any one over the others. These include difethialone, bromadialone, warfarin and zinc phosphide. The latter two, according to the Department, are more toxic than others.
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