Surf Coast Pest Control Rodent Management

Rats and mice are mammals belonging to the order Rodentia, there are more than 2,200 species of rodents with 40% of the mammal species belonging to the Rodentia order. Australia is home to 60 native rodent species and three introduced species. Due to their size and short breeding cycle and ability to consume a variety of foods rodents have managed to populate every continent except for Antarctica. 

The three introduced pest species of rodents in Australia are capable of causing devastating damage to a broad range of settings including, domestic, commercial and industrial areas. 

Rodents two front teeth grow continuously throughout their life hence why they cause damage by gnawing materials such as electrical wires, pipes, timbers, and stored items etc. They also create major hygiene issues in food preparation or hospitality industries by excreting on food supplies or preparation areas. 

The three pest species of rodents in Victoria are known as:

• Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus)
• Roof rat (Rattus rattus)
• House mouse (Mus domesticus)

Norway Rat:

Norway rats are the largest species of three rodents listed above. These rodents have a life span of 9-12 months and females produce 5-6 litters per year with an average of 8-10 pups per litter, They reach sexual maturity in 3-4 months of birth.

Typical food sources for Norway rats are starch and protein-rich foods such as:

• Plants
• Animal matter
• Cereals
• Meat
• Fish
• Vegetables
• Weeds
• Nuts
• Fruits

Roof Rat:

Roof rats are smaller than the Norway rat and have a life span of 9-12 months. Females will produce 4-5 litters per year with an average of 6-8 pups per litter, reaching sexual maturity in 3-4 months. Generally found in built-up areas or near the coast they have incredible climbing capabilities and prefer to nest in roof voids.

Typical food sources for Roof rats are high in nutritional value such as:

• Cereals
• Grains
• Fruits
• Insects
• Meat

House Mouse:

The house mouse is the smallest of the three common pest rodents in Victoria. They have a life span of 12 months with females producing 6-10 litters per year, reaching sexual maturity in 6 weeks. These pests are known to nest indoors and outdoors within close proximity to humans. 

House mice consume a wide variety of foods such as:

• Fruits
• Nuts
• Grains
• Animal Feed
• Cereals