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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.

There’s little scientific evidence to suggest that homemade remedies to ward off wildlife are effective. But, often, when using them alongside other management techniques, it won’t do any harm to try. Suggestions include using urine-soaked kitty litter or sweat-soaked clothing items. Try applying them around your fence perimeters. Always read the instructions carefully for any commercially-bought repellents and opt for EPA-approved products. Multiple applications, especially after rain, are often necessary.

Some of the smells we love are, thankfully, pretty putrid for mosquitoes. A few essential oils that might have them swarming in the other direction include:

• Lavender

• Citronella

• Eucalyptus

• Cinnamon

• Thyme

Be careful how and where you apply essential oils around pets and children, and top them off regularly so they stay effective.

You’ll want to locate all areas in your home that could be a potential entry point for mice, such as doors, windows, vents, baseboards, holes, and cracks in your home’s foundation. Don’t forget to check less-obvious areas like the attic, plumbing and sewers, and even the roof and gutters. If you check these spots and don’t find any signs of mice, consider hiring a pest control pro to dig deeper into potential hiding spots.