Rodents

Rodent calls to Harbor Pest Control have increased quite a bit over the past two weeks. Spring Valley and San Diego have seen the most calls, followed by La Mesa.

If you've spotted a small rodent darting across your garage floor or disappearing behind an appliance, you might assume it's a mouse. But size can be misleading. Young rats can look surprisingly similar to adult mice, especially when you only catch a quick glimpse.

So how can you tell the difference?

An adult house mouse typically has a slender body, a pointed snout and relatively small feet. A young rat, on the other hand, often looks a little out of proportion, with a larger head and noticeably bigger feet compared to its body.

Of course, most homeowners don't get a good, long look at a rodent before it disappears. That's why it's helpful to pay attention to where you saw it and what else is happening nearby. Chewed food packaging, droppings and signs of activity around garage walls or storage areas can help narrow down where rodents are spending time.

For now, keep pantry items and pet food in tightly sealed containers, reduce clutter in garages and storage areas, and check for gaps around exterior doors and utility lines. If you suspect rodents are already getting inside, have the activity assessed before sealing openings that may still be in use.

Not sure what you're dealing with? Harbor Pest Control has helped San Diego homeowners address rodent problems since 1948. Our team can inspect your property, look for entry points and recommend the appropriate next steps.

You can also read our guide to rodent signs around the home for more clues about what might be happening on your property.