The Most Commonly Found Rodents in Massachusetts
Most people don’t know that Massachusetts is home to a wide array of wildlife. As a matter of fact, the state is home to more than 80 different species of mammals, and about 15 of those species are rodents! The rodent population is relatively large around Massachusetts; whether it’s small mice or large rats, there are several types of pesky critters that you should always keep your eyes peeled for. All rodents are capable of carrying various harmful diseases and health risks, which can create all sorts of damage to buildings, homes, and worst of all, your health! Keep reading below to gain further insight into the most commonly found rodents in Massachusetts.
Mice
Mice are the smallest rodents on our list and can be found almost anywhere throughout the state. There are said to be more than 70 different species of mice across the United States, but in Massachusetts, the most commonly found species are house mice, deer mice, and white footed mice. You can suspect that mice have invaded your property if you notice droppings and chewed packaging. Don’t take mice infestation as a joke, as these tiny critters pose enormous health risks!
Rats
Rats are very common throughout Massachusetts. You can find big brown rats, aka Norway rats, usually in, near, or around homes and apartments, or pretty much anywhere where people live. These rats lack vision but have a strong sense of smell, touch, and taste. They are mostly found during the fall when the weather becomes colder, and food becomes more scarce. Keep a lookout because these animals can squeeze through small gaps and openings in homes.
Squirrels
Most people are unaware of how destructive squirrels can be! These furry critters are prone to climbing into homes by grasping onto trees, branches, and power lines. Once they gain entry, they can cause severe damage by scratching at insulation, building nests, and creating hazards by chewing on wires. The gray squirrel and the red squirrel are frequently found across Massachusetts.
Groundhogs
Groundhogs are much larger than mice, rats, and squirrels, and can grow up to 27 inches long. These animals have furry tails, range from dark brown to gray, and sometimes have white tips. Groundhogs are prone to burrowing beneath structures and chewing through power cables, and they eat whatever they find in gardens.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Rodent Removal Services
Absolut Pest Control is located in Amesbury, MA, and has a reputation for successfully removing and exterminating all types of pests, especially rodents. If your home or property is facing a rodent problem, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts today. You can reach us by calling 978-388-4589 or by filling out our contact form.
The Most Common Pests to Look Out For This Fall
Summer has come and gone, now it’s time to enjoy the cool crisp air and watch the leaves change right before our very eyes. Aside from the glorious scenery and other fun fall activities, this season may also bring unwanted intruders. The mosquitoes may be gone, but there are still several other insects waiting to gain entry into your home, as well as various rodents who are seeking warmth and shelter before winter arrives. Absolut Pest Control has listed various pests for you to keep a close eye on throughout the fall season below.
Common Insects in the Fall
Despite the chilly weather, various insects can be found throughout the fall, and even worse, in your home! Gain further insight into these tiny pests and how you can keep them away all season long here:
- Silverfish: Silverfish gravitate towards moisture and are most commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens. You can keep silverfish away this fall by applying cedar shavings and essential oils within these areas.
- Fleas: If fleas make their way inside your home or property, you should contact a professional because they are challenging to handle alone. They are prone to latching onto pets, so it would be a good idea to apply flea-control collars on your pets.
- Ants: Ants have a reputation for burrowing underneath the ground while also seeking warmth, especially this time of year. They hardly ever arrive as just one or two; they form colonies and are known for reproducing very quickly!
- Cockroaches: Cockroaches gravitate towards heat, so be on the lookout for these tiny pests in your kitchen. Also, be sure to remove any accessible crumbs or dirty dishes sooner rather than later!
Common Rodents in the Fall
As temperatures drop, rodents are scrambling to find warmth this time of year. Rodents are prone to entering homes and properties in search of warmth, but this can lead to damage, disease, and more. Keep a close eye out for these rodents during the fall season:
- Mice: Mice are very common in New England, especially during the fall season. They arrive with various problems, like chewing insulation, finding food, and leaving droppings. They seek warm spots such as ones near the stove or even the fireplace.
- Squirrels: Squirrels are tricky pests that tend to break in through small areas of your home’s siding or roof. The best way to avoid a squirrel infestation is to block entry points and seal cracks and holes.
- Rats: Rats are much larger than mice, but they can spread very harmful diseases. These pests will eat almost anything they can find, so be sure to remove any accessible food immediately and check your trash cans if you suspect rats on your property.
Contact Absolut Pest Control for Pest Removal Services This Fall
The experts at Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, are here to effectively remove and exterminate a wide variety of unwanted intruders from your home or property this fall through various methods and strategies. Get started by calling us today at 978-388-4589 or by filling out our contact form.
What Diseases Do Mice Carry?
Mice may appear friendly, but they are a complete nuisance to homeowners, property owners, and restaurant owners. It is speculated that mice tend to arrive more so within the fall and cooler months, but in reality, they are present all year round, especially in New England. Mice are primary household pests for two main reasons: they can cause significant damage to insulation, and by spreading various diseases, leading to harmful health concerns. Continue reading to learn more about the harmful diseases that mice can spread if not removed in a timely manner.
Diseases Carried By Mice
Mice are one of the filthiest pests found in New England. They are contaminated with bacteria and other diseased organisms, which can be spread through their feces and urine left around properties. Be aware of the following diseases that mice can spread:
Hantavirus
Hantavirus is caused by viral organisms that are inhaled with dust particles while in contact with mice feces and urine. The feces and urine usually reside within the mice’s nests, which can be either inside or outside of properties. You may have Hantavirus if you are experiencing symptoms of fever, headache, or muscle pain. If this disease goes untreated, it can lead to more serious symptoms such as severe coughing, fluid in the lungs, or even death.
Salmonellosis
Salmonellosis is known to cause severe upset stomachs for humans. This disease occurs when coming into contact with mouse feces within food or on top of food preparation surfaces and utensils.
Leptospirosis
Without the proper treatment, Leptospirosis can cause kidney and liver failure. This harmful disease is caused by water contamination with mouse urine.
Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM)
LCM can cause several severe issues to the human body, such as fever, headache, or even brain damage! It occurs through direct contact with feces or inhaling waste-tainted dust. If you plan to clean up mouse feces, be sure to wear the proper protection. Also, pregnant females are at a higher risk of LCM because possible birth defects can occur and possibly result in death.
Contact Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, for an Effective Mouse Removal!
Mice infestations are no joke, especially in New England! Luckily, Absolut Pest Control is here to effectively and adequately take down your home or property’s mouse infestation or invasion with ease. Our experts possess extensive knowledge and experience in removing mice and other rodents in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, having served the areas for many years. If your home, property, or restaurant is under attack, please contact us immediately to prevent the situation from worsening and potentially spreading harmful diseases. Call Absolut Pest Control in Amesbury, MA, today at (978) 388-4589 or fill out our contact form!
Basic Tips for Preventing Tick Bites
Tick Control
Summer is the perfect time to do all those fun outdoor activities you have been anxiously waiting to do since the winter. Before you hit the outdoors to either to go hiking or do some gardening, you will want to make sure you are well protected from ticks. Ticks are small arachnids that require blood meals to complete their complex life cycles. Ticks can very dangerous because they transmit diseases to several hosts; diseases including Lyme disease, Heartland virus, and Q Fever. It’s important to take the right steps in protecting yourself from any kind of tick.
Ways To Prevent Ticks:
- Purchas the right bug repellent that is safe to use and will be effective for several hours while you’re outdoors.
- After you return you from the outdoors, make sure to inspect your entire body carefully for any ticks that may
be stuck on your skin. For ticks to transmit Lyme Disease, they have to be attached to the skin for at least 36 hours to transmit Lyme disease. - If you go hiking or spending time around a wooded area, make sure you wear long sleeves and long pants, socks, and boots (no open toe shoes).
- Ticks like tall grass, so try to keep your lawn short and well-maintained. Also, try to stay in sunny areas when outdoors, that will reduce tick exposure.
- Ticks can easily make connect with your pets while they are outside, make sure you inspect pets once they come back inside and remove any ticks you find with a pair of tweezers.
If you are in need of tick control or any other pest problem, contact Absolut Pest Control 978.388.4589 or fill out our contact form online.
What is the Zika Virus?
There has been a rise in a recent virus that spreads to people mainly after they have been bitten by an infected Aedes species mosquito. The Zika Virus is in the same family of other viruses like West Nile, Dengue, Yellow Fever, and Japanese Encephalitis. This virus has been reported in Africa, the United States, Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Mosquitoes & West Nile in Massachusetts
Many towns throughout Massachusetts are under warming for traces of West Nile Virus being found in Mosquitoes. First it was only found in bird-biting mosquitoes but new news is out that West Nile, or EEE, is now being found in mammal-biting mosquitoes, posing a significant threat to humans. Many communities in Massachusetts are being sprayed to try to kill off the mosquitoes but you should still take measures to protect yourself by bombing your lawn and always carrying bug spray with you incase mosquitoes get bad. Make sure to look up the symptoms for West Nile and be as educated as possible while trying to keep you and your family safe!
