Rodents

Rodents at a Glance

Who: Rats and Mice (Muroidea)

What: Mammals characterized by continuously growing incisors.

When: Late Spring throughout the Summer. .

Where: Most species limited to Asia/Eurasia and Africa, although the House Mouse is found worldwide.

Prevention: Keep food areas clean and well stored. Seal cracks and holes and get regular rodent inspections.

The Rodent

A rodent is a type of mammal currently found on every continent except Antarctica. Rodents are characterized by sharp incisors that continuously grow and many common backyard visitors and pets are rodents (hamsters, squirrels, guinea pigs, beavers, etc.). Certain rodents, including rats and mice, are considered pest species and have historically been known to eat stored food supplies and spread disease.

Two thirds of rodent species are in the family Muroidea, which includes rats and mice. Although not in any way scientific, the term “rat” usually applies to larger rodents that typically have a naked or hairless tail, whereas a “mouse” applies to smaller rodents. Both species are common pets sold at pet stores as “fancy mice” or “fancy rats” and common pests that may enter your home looking for food or shelter.

Habitat

Rodents can adapt very well to new environments, making them very successful in places that are not their normal habitats, such as sewers or residential neighborhoods. Rats typically have a much more negative image than mice, although both species are capable of carrying disease and wiping out food stores. Some species may be tree-dwelling while others prefer to live underground in burrows. They typically feed on seeds and other plants, and have a wide array of natural enemies including cats, foxes, birds of prey and snakes. As such, rodents are typically nocturnal and are well adapt at quietly sneaking around.

Rodents in Arkansas

We aren’t known as “The Natural State” for just any reason – Arkansas is a perfect home for many types of rodents, especially as housing developments sprawl out from residential areas into forests. Some of the more common species of rats and mice you are likely to come in contact with are listed below:

Rats