Are rats and mice the same?

While many people assume rats and mice are the same, they are actually two distinct species with different behaviours, sizes, and risks to your home. Rats are much larger than mice, with heavier bodies, thicker tails, and bigger, blunt-ended droppings. Mice, on the other hand, are smaller, lighter, and more agile, often squeezing through tiny gaps as small as 6mm.

In terms of behaviour, rats are more cautious, avoiding new objects or changes in their environment, while mice are curious and more likely to explore new spaces. This means different pest control strategies are required depending on whether you’re dealing with a rat or mouse infestation.

Both rodents can cause serious issues in your home by contaminating food, damaging insulation and wiring, and spreading disease. That’s why accurate identification is key to effective rodent control. Our experienced technicians at Precision Pest Control will determine which pest is present and tailor a treatment plan that targets the specific species.