Finding rodent droppings is a telltale sign of an infestation. And being able to identify those droppings is the first step in figuring out what kind of rodent you’re dealing with, which helps you choose the right pest control strategy.
This guide covers how to identify rodent feces based on their color, size, shape, and where you found them. We’ll also talk about droppings from other pests, so you don’t get them mixed up.
Key characteristics of rodent droppings
When you’re trying to figure out if you have a rodent problem, here are some clues to look for in their droppings:
Color and moisture
Fresh droppings are usually dark and moist, either black or very dark brown. A moist consistency suggests the rodents are still active in the area.
Older droppings are often dry and lighter in color, perhaps gray or light brown. They may crumble if you touch them.
Size and shape
Rat droppings are typically larger than mouse droppings, averaging about ¾ inch long.
Mouse droppings are smaller, often described as seed-like in appearance. House mouse droppings are small, pointed, and brown or black.
Quantity and location
The number of droppings you find can tell you how bad the infestation is. Mice tend to produce more droppings per day (70 to 150) than rats (35 to 50).
If you find droppings near food or nesting sites, that suggests you have an active rodent population.
Identifying rat droppings: Norway vs. roof rats
If you’re seeing droppings that could be from rats, here’s how to tell whether you’re dealing with Norway rats or roof rats.
Norway rat droppings
- Description: You’ll typically see droppings that are rectangular and blunt. You’ll often find them in small groups scattered around.
- Location: Look for them in basements, on ground floors, and near garbage cans.
Roof rat droppings
- Description: Droppings are curved and spindle-shaped and scattered around.
- Location: Look for them in attics, ceilings, and other higher-up spots.
Identifying Mouse Droppings: House Mice
If you’re seeing tiny, dark droppings, it’s likely you have house mice.
- Description: Mouse droppings are small, pointed, and either brown or black. They look a lot like tiny seeds.
- Quantity: Mice poop a lot. A single mouse can produce as many as 27,000 pellets a year.
- Location: Look for droppings near food, inside drawers, and along walls.
How to tell rodent droppings from the droppings of other pests
If you’re seeing droppings, it’s important to figure out which animal is leaving them behind. Here’s how to tell the difference between the droppings of various pests.
Cockroach droppings
- Look like coarse ground pepper
- Can be sticky
- May contain pathogens such as salmonella
Bat droppings (guano)
- Similar in color to mouse droppings but rougher
- Crumble easily
- Bats are often protected species, so avoid harming them
Squirrel droppings
- Oblong, thick, and rounded on the ends
- Turn white as they age
Bed bug droppings
- Tiny specks about the size of a pinhead
- Rust-colored
- Often found in soft furnishings
Wrapping Up
When it comes to identifying rodent droppings, pay attention to the color, size, shape, quantity, and location. These clues can help you determine the type of rodent you’re dealing with.
If you find rodent droppings in your home, it’s best to contact a qualified pest control service to safely and effectively manage the problem.