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To determine if you have a rat or mouse infestation, look for several key differences. The most obvious is the size of the rodent: rats are significantly larger with thicker bodies, while mice are much smaller and more slender. You can also identify them by their droppings; rat droppings are larger and rounder, about the size of a raisin, while mouse droppings are smaller, like a grain of rice, and often have pointed ends. Other signs include the sounds they make, as rats produce louder scratching and gnawing noises due to their size. Behaviorally, rats tend to be more cautious, whereas mice are more curious and might be seen more often. Additionally, rat nests are typically larger than those of mice. If you are unable to see the pest or find clear evidence, a professional inspection can provide a definitive identification.

They’re a nuisance, but silverfish aren’t nearly as dangerous as other pests like cockroaches, mice, termites or bed bugs. They don’t carry diseases that humans or pets can catch, and they don’t cause widespread destruction like termites or rats. Silverfish are small and find it very easy to get inside any exposed foodstuffs. Like weevils, you may find them in unprotected flour, cereal, grains, bread boxes, chip packages and more. They will happily nibble fabric and paper as well, so they can cause damage to furniture, clothing, books, bedding, curtains and other materials.

If you spot a bug in your home that seems very similar to a flea, it’s likely a springtail, which is a tiny jumping insect that can resemble a flea. Unlike fleas, they are not dangerous to humans or animals because they don’t bite. Fleas are smaller than springtails, which is how you can distinguish them.

Ant and termite infestations look very different. Since termites feed on wood, one of the warning signs of their presence is drooping drywall, peeling paint, loose floor tiles, and crumbling wood. On the other hand, ants feed on plant- and animal-based food options, so you’ll likely spot a colony near your home’s food sources. If you’re unsure what type of pest infestation you have, hire a pest control specialist to inspect for you.