rats – mice – grey squirrels
rodent pest control
rodent pest management
We handle Rats, Mice and Grey Squirrels
We cover Bridgend, Rhondda, Vale of Glamorgan, Neath, and Port Talbot.
We deliver expert pest control services for Rats Mice and Grey Squirrels both inside and outside of residential and commercial premises.
Contact us to arrange a no-cost, comprehensive assessment of the issue.
rat problems
We specialise in dealing with both Brown and Black rats which are the common species in the UK.
Rats are very versatile and we will identify the source of the occurence and the best treatment method.
We will also consider non lethal methods and the customers immediate environment, working with you every step of the way.
We can also help with nest removal and proofing.
Mice Pest Control
We are experts in managing Mice infestations of all kinds in both commercial and domestic settings.
The most common occurrence of pest mice is when House Mice enter properties. We will diagnose the species present and deploy a treatment plan to remove them and resolve the issue.
We will also provide advice on prevention, proofing and we will also provide a nest removal service.
grey squirrels
Yes they are cute, but they are also a rodent and classified as a pest. They cause significant damage to wildlife and woodlands and also property.
We can provide advice and removal should you experience a Grey Squirrel issue.
We can advise on proofing, nest removal, causes, attractants and means to remedy and remove Grey Squirrels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Squirrels Rodents?
Yes, Squirrels are classified as rodents, however it is only the grey squirrel that is commonly considered to be a pest.
Who should I call if I have a rat or mouse problem?
Please call Glamorgan Pest Control if you have any kind of rodent issue, or you suspect there may be a problem, we can visit you quickly and provide advice. If we don’t start treatment of the issue, we wont charge. So its always worth a call.
How long do rats and mice live?
The lifespan of mice and rats varies based on species, living conditions, and whether they’re wild or kept as pets.
Mice:
Wild mice usually live for 1–2 years. Their lives are often shorter due to predators, disease, and environmental challenges.
Pet mice (especially domesticated types like the common house mouse) can live 2–3 years with proper care.
Rats:
Wild rats, like wild mice, tend to have shorter lifespans, usually 1–2 years, due to similar factors.
Pet rats (such as fancy rats) typically live 2–3 years, but with excellent care, they can occasionally live up to 4 years.
Pets tend to live longer due to controlled environments, good nutrition, and protection from predators.
Do I have a Rat’s nest on my property?
Rats are notorious for being elusive, but there are several signs that indicate the presence of a rat nest on a property. Here are some key indicators:
1. Gnaw Marks:
Rats constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp. Look for fresh gnaw marks on wood, plastic, cables, or food containers.
Younger rats leave smaller, finer marks, while larger rats leave more noticeable damage.
2. Droppings:
Rat droppings are dark and shaped like small pellets, about 1/4 inch to 3/4 inch long.
A concentrated amount of droppings, especially in hidden areas like corners or near food sources, is a strong indicator of a rat infestation.
3. Rub Marks:
Rats often travel the same routes, and their greasy fur leaves dark smudges or rub marks along walls, baseboards, and entry points.
4. Footprints or Tail Marks:
In dusty or undisturbed areas, you might see small rat footprints or tail drag marks.
You can sprinkle a light layer of flour or powder to check for tracks overnight.
5. Burrows:
Rats dig burrows for nesting. Look for holes in the ground, particularly near structures, under bushes, or in hidden spaces like basements.
These burrows may have smooth, well-worn entry points due to frequent use.
6. Noise:
Scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds in walls, attics, or under floorboards, especially at night, are common signs of rats nesting in hidden areas.
7. Nests:
Rats build nests using shredded materials like paper, fabric, or insulation. These nests are often found in hidden, warm, and undisturbed places like behind walls, under appliances, or in attics.
8. Unpleasant Odors:
A strong, musty smell can indicate the presence of a rat nest, especially if it has been established for some time.
The smell is due to rat urine, feces, and decomposing food or carcasses.
9. Damage to Food or Packaging:
Rats gnaw through food packaging, so check for damaged boxes or bags of food, especially in pantries or storage areas.
10. Live or Dead Rats:
Seeing a live or dead rat on your property is a strong sign of an infestation. Even spotting a single rat could indicate that there is a larger population hiding.
If you notice several of these signs, it’s likely that rats are present on or within your property. Taking prompt action is key to controlling and preventing a larger infestation.
Please feel free to call us for a no obligation assessment or for a free quote.
Do Rats, Mice and Squirrels Hibernate?
No, rats, mice, and squirrels do not hibernate, but they handle winter conditions differently.
Rats and Mice:
Do not hibernate. Instead, they remain active throughout the year, including winter.
In colder months, rats and mice seek shelter indoors in warm places like homes, garages, or other structures. They build nests and search for food.
They may reduce their activity slightly to conserve energy but will still forage and reproduce.
Squirrels:
Tree squirrels (like gray squirrels) do not hibernate but are less active in winter. They spend more time in their nests (dreys) and rely on food they stored during the fall. On milder winter days, they emerge to forage.
Ground squirrels, however, do hibernate. They burrow underground and enter a state of dormancy during the colder months to conserve energy.
While none of these animals truly hibernate (with the exception of some ground squirrels), they adapt their behavior to survive winter, often seeking warmth and food from human habitats.
How can I tell if I have squirrels or Rats of Mice in my attic?
Determining whether you have squirrels, rats, or mice in your attic can be done by looking at the signs they leave behind. Here are the key differences to help you identify which animal might be nesting in your attic:
1. Time of Activity:
Squirrels: Active during daylight hours (especially at dawn and dusk). If you hear noises like scratching or scurrying during the day, it’s likely squirrels.
Rats and Mice: Nocturnal, so they are more active at night. You’ll typically hear noises like scratching, scurrying, or gnawing after dark or in the early morning hours.
2. Types of Noises:
Squirrels: They make louder, heavier sounds due to their larger size. You might hear thumping or running noises as they move about the attic. Squirrels can also make vocal sounds like chattering or squeaking.
Rats and Mice: Produce softer, lighter scratching and scurrying noises due to their smaller size. The sound of gnawing or the occasional high-pitched squeak is also common.
3. Droppings:
Squirrel Droppings: Squirrel feces are larger, oval-shaped, and similar in size to a raisin. The droppings are typically scattered.
Rat Droppings: Larger than mouse droppings, rat droppings are 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, dark, and capsule-shaped with blunt ends.
Mouse Droppings: Smaller than rat droppings, 1/8 to 1/4 inch long, pointed at the ends, and often found in clusters.
4. Nesting Materials:
Squirrels: Build large nests using twigs, leaves, and grass. You may see this material collected in the attic or near entry points. Squirrels may also use insulation material for warmth.
Rats and Mice: Use smaller shredded materials like paper, fabric, or insulation to build their nests, usually in hidden areas or corners.
5. Entry Points:
Squirrels: Enter through larger openings, typically 2 inches or larger, such as roof vents, eaves, or loose shingles. They may gnaw through wood or shingles to create entry points.
Rats and Mice: Can squeeze through small holes or cracks, with rats fitting through holes as small as 1 inch and mice fitting through holes as small as 1/4 inch. Look for small gaps around the foundation, vents, or utility lines.
6. Damage Patterns:
Squirrels: Cause more structural damage due to their larger size and strong teeth. They may chew on wood beams, rafters, or electrical wires. They are also more likely to strip insulation for nesting.
Rats and Mice: Also gnaw on wood and wires, but the damage is usually smaller. Mice tend to create smaller, hidden nests, while rats may leave gnaw marks on baseboards or stored items.
7. Footprints and Rub Marks:
Squirrels: May leave larger footprints in dusty areas. Their footprints will have larger, well-defined toes, often with longer, distinct claw marks.
Rats and Mice: Leave smaller footprints and greasy rub marks along walls and well-traveled paths due to the oils in their fur. Rat footprints are generally larger than mouse footprints but both are smaller than squirrel prints.
8. Sightings:
Squirrels: If you see squirrels outside frequently, especially near rooflines, vents, or chimneys, it’s a sign they may be entering your attic.
Rats and Mice: They are rarely seen during the day, but evidence of their presence might include live or dead rodents near entry points or nests.
9. Smell:
Rats and Mice: Have a stronger odour due to urine and droppings, and the smell can become musty or foul in enclosed spaces like attics.
Squirrels: Less noticeable odor, though their nests may start to smell if abandoned or if a squirrel dies in the attic.
If you suspect squirrels, rats, or mice, it’s important to identify and address the problem promptly. Squirrels often need professional trapping and removal, while rats and mice may require bait, traps, or exclusion methods. Identifying entry points and sealing them is key to preventing future infestations.
Contact us for a free visit & assessment!
Contact us for friendly advice and a professional local service.
Why Choose Us
Local Service
Glamorgan Mole & Pest Control are based in the heart of their service area so its a maximum of 30 minutes to your door.
Discreet & Professional
We will arrive on site in a discreet vehicle and ensure a minimum of disruption while providing our service.
Fully Qualified
Qualified with the Industry standard of: Level 2 in Pest Management – provided by the British Pest Control Association.
Friendly & Reliable
We care about providing a great service, one that is always friendly and professional. We will also provide a reliable service, provide you with an arrival time and a thorough treatment plan.