Rodent infestations are a common concern for homeowners and businesses in Austin, TX. Not only can rodents damage property, but they can also carry diseases that pose serious health risks. Knowing which rodents are most prevalent in the area and recognizing the signs of their presence can help you take action before a small problem becomes a major infestation. Today, we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to share common rodents in Austin, TX and surrounding areas, how to identify them, and the signs they have invaded your space.
Common Rodents in Austin
1) House Mice. House mice are small, usually about 2–4 inches long, with gray or brown fur. They are highly adaptable and can live indoors or outdoors, often seeking warmth in homes during cooler months. These mice are active mostly at night and are known for their ability to squeeze through tiny openings as small as a quarter of an inch.
2) Norway Rats. Also called brown rats, Norway rats are larger than house mice, measuring up to 9 inches in body length. They are usually brown or gray with coarse fur and a long, scaly tail. Norway rats are ground dwellers that prefer to nest in basements, crawl spaces, or behind walls. They are strong swimmers and can enter homes through sewer lines or gaps near foundations.
3) Roof Rats. Roof rats, sometimes called black rats, are slightly smaller than Norway rats but more agile climbers. They have sleek black or dark brown fur and long tails, which they use to navigate through trees, attics, and rooflines. Roof rats often invade homes by climbing utility lines or overhanging branches.
Signs of Rodents in Your Home
Even if you don’t see rodents directly, certain signs indicate their presence:
1) Droppings – Rodent droppings are one of the most common indicators of infestation. Mice droppings are tiny, about the size of a grain of rice, while rat droppings are larger and capsule-shaped. Finding droppings near food sources or along walls is a strong signal.
2) Gnaw Marks – Rodents constantly gnaw to keep their teeth sharp. Look for chew marks on furniture, baseboards, electrical wires, and food packaging. Fresh gnaw marks are lighter in color and darken over time.
3) Nests – Rodents build nests using shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or other soft materials. Nests are often hidden in quiet areas like attics, behind appliances, or inside wall cavities.
4) Noises – Scratching, squeaking, or scurrying sounds in the walls, ceilings, or under floors, especially at night, can indicate rodent activity.
5) Tracks and Smudges – Rodents leave footprints in dusty areas or oily smudge marks along walls and baseboards as they travel frequently the same paths.
Rodent Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
Recognizing the most common rodents in Austin and identifying the signs of their presence is the first step in protecting your home or business. While minor infestations may seem manageable, rodents reproduce quickly and can cause extensive damage. For effective and safe removal, it’s best to contact a professional rodent control service that understands the unique challenges of Austin homes. Acting early can save you money, stress, and potential health hazards. Call A-Tex Pest Management if you suspect rodents are infesting your Austin, TX home or business.
