What Are Rodents?

Rodents include mice and rats. In a city, they are common because they look for:

• Food
• Water
• Warm places to live

They often hide in basements, garages, alleys, and kitchens.

Why Are Rodents a Problem?

Rodents are a concern because they can:

• Spread germs through droppings and urine
• Contaminate food and dishes
• Chew wires, walls, and pipes (fire and damage risk)

Keeping them out helps protect your health and your property.

Signs You May Have Rodents

You may have rodents if you notice:

• Small dark droppings along walls, in cabinets, or in storage areas
• Chewed food packages or gnaw marks on wood, plastic, or wires
• Scratching or scurrying noises, especially at night
• Nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation

Preventing Rodents at Home

Focus on food, water, and shelter:

Food

• Store human and pet food in sealed containers
• Clean up crumbs and spills right away
• Don’t leave pet food out overnight
• Use trash cans with tight lids

Water

• Fix leaking pipes and faucets
• Don’t leave standing water in basements, buckets, or under sinks

Shelter

• Reduce clutter, especially on floors and in basements
• Seal gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and foundations

Traps

• Snap traps can help if used safely
• Keep traps away from children and pets
• The Manchester Health Department does not recommend that property owners spread their own pesticides throughout the property. Pesticide application must be performed by a licensed pest control operator. 

For bigger issues, consider hiring a licensed pest control company.