Identifying pest droppings in a home can be a difficult task for an untrained eye. People often mistake certain bugs and their droppings, leading to ineffective pest control methods. To provide clarity on this issue and help you identify pest droppings in your home, we have provided 6 helpful tips.
1. Learn the Different Types of Droppings
Seek to understand the distinct types of droppings and their origin. Rodent droppings are particularly easy to identify, as they are usually small and tapered, usually black or brown, and have pointed ends. Insect droppings, on the other hand, can be harder to identify. Insect droppings come in various shapes and sizes, like pellets, brush marks, and powdery residue.
A. Rodent Droppings
Rodent droppings are primarily found in cabinets, drawers, basements, and dark spaces. Since these types of droppings are often confused with insects, it’s important to know the difference. Rodent droppings are small, typically black or brown, and have a tapered shape with pointed ends. They are usually found in clusters and the smell of urine is often in the area.
B. Insect Droppings
Insect droppings are often more difficult to identify since they come in various shapes, depending on the type of pest. Commonly found include pellets, brush marks, and powdery residue. It is important to identify the specific type of insect droppings as it helps ensure that the most appropriate solution can be taken to get rid of whatever pest is causing the problem.
2. Look for Signs of Infestation
Along with recognizing the types of droppings, observe the area for signs of a pest infestation, such as empty egg casings, webs, and mud tunnels. Rodents and insects typically leave behind evidence of their infestation, like gnawed food containers or marks in the walls. Inspect the area thoroughly, paying attention to furniture, shelving, and any other potentially vulnerable areas.
A. Chewed Containers
Check any containers or food packaging that was previously in the area. Rodents and insects have a propensity to gnaw their way through containers, leaving behind tell-tale signs. Inspect the containers closely, looking for any chew marks or tears.
B. Mud Tunnels
Also be on the lookout for mud tunnels, which are often a sign of termites. Termites create mud tunnels to allow them to travel through walls, or soil, enabling them to locate food sources. If these tunnels are present, then it is likely that an infestation has already taken hold in the home.
3. Use a Flashlight to Inspect
When inspecting for droppings and signs of infestation, it is important to use a flashlight to get a good view of the area. This will enable you to look for rodent and insect droppings, as well as any other evidence that the pests may have left behind. It is also important to check crevices and corners.
A. Look in Dark Areas
Pests like to hide in dark, obscure places. Consequently, it is important to use a flashlight to look behind furniture, inside cupboards, and around door frames.
B. Move Objects Around
In addition to looking in dark places, use the flashlight to look under furniture and other objects in the area. This is a perfect way to ensure that you are thoroughly inspecting for any signs or evidence of pests.
4. Wear Protective Gear
When conducting an inspection in the home, it is important to wear protective gear to reduce the chances of coming into contact with any of the pest droppings. This includes wearing a face mask, gloves, boots, and protective clothing that covers the arms and the legs.
A. Wear a Mask
Wearing a face mask is highly recommended when conducting an inspection of the home. This is especially important when dealing with insect droppings, as some may contain contaminants which could potentially be hazardous.
B. Wear Gloves
It is also important to wear protective gloves to guard against any contact with the droppings. In addition, the gloves can be used to move the objects around, or to pick up any droppings that need to be examined or disposed of.
5. Clean Up the Area
Once the inspection is complete, it is important to clean up the area to completely eradicate any droppings and prevent any potential health problems that could occur from coming into contact with the droppings.
A. Dispose of Droppings Carefully
Any droppings that are found should be disposed of carefully in a sealed container. This prevents the spread of any germs that could be lingering and keeping adjacent areas clean is paramount to prevent another infestation.
B. Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Surfaces which have been visibly contaminated with droppings should be cleaned thoroughly with an appropriate disinfectant. Thoroughly cleaning the area is important to ensure that any germs, mites, or contaminants have been removed.
6. Contact a Professional Pest Control Company
If the inspection reveals that there is a substantial infestation, prompt action should be taken to get rid of the pests. While there are some DIY solutions, if the infestation is severe, or if it appears to be getting worse, it is best practice to contact a professional pest control company. They will be able to provide tailored advice and solutions for the specific pest problem.
People Also Ask
1. What Does Insect Droppings Look Like?
Insect droppings usually come in various shapes and sizes, such as pellets, brush marks, and powdery residue.
2. How Do You Tell the Difference Between Rodent and Insect Droppings?
Rodent droppings are usually small and tapered with pointed ends, and are usually black or brown. Insect droppings come in various shapes and sizes, like pellets, brush marks, and powdery residue.
3. How Do I Dispose of Pest Droppings?
Droppings should be disposed of carefully in a sealed container to prevent the spread of germs.
4. How Do I Clean the Area?
Surfaces which have been visibly contaminated with droppings should be cleaned thoroughly with an appropriate disinfectant to ensure any germs, mites, or contaminants have been removed.
5. How Do I Identify the Type of Pest?
Inspect the area for signs of a pest infestation, such as empty egg casings, webs, and mud tunnels. Look for any evidence like gnawed food containers or marks in the walls. Also, seek to understand the distinct types of droppings and their origin.
Final Words
Identifying pest droppings in a home can be a difficult task, but following the steps outlined in this article, such as learning the different types of droppings, looking for signs of infestation, using a flashlight to inspect, wearing protective gear, cleaning up the area, and contacting a professional pest control company should help to identify the droppings and resolve the issue.