The difference between rats and mice – How to recognize them

Size: Mice are generally smaller than rats, with a body length of about 7-10 cm and a tail that is as long as or slightly longer than the body. 

Ears and eyes: Mice have small, round ears and large, round eyes relative to their body. 

Body structure: They have sleek bodies with thin legs, making them very agile and fast. 

Size: Rats are significantly larger, with a body length of 20-25 cm and a tail that is slightly shorter than the body. 

Ears and eyes: Rats have larger, more robust ears and smaller, darker eyes. 

Body structure: Their bodies are sturdier and more robust compared to mice, with thicker fur and stronger jaws. 

Activity: Mice are very active and curious. They like to explore new areas and can quickly adapt to different environments. 

Territoriality: They are less territorial than rats and can share space with other mice if resources are sufficient. 

Height preference: Mice prefer to stay close to the ground and can often be seen running along walls and under furniture. 

Activity: Rats are more territorial and can dominate other rats in the area. They are less curious than mice and tend to be more cautious. 

Territoriality: Rats mark their territory and can become aggressive if they feel threatened. 

Height preference: Rats like to stay at higher elevations and can build nests in tight spaces like basements or overhanging roofs. 

Habitat: Mice thrive in warm and dry places near food storage, such as kitchens, pantries, and freezers. 

Housing: They build their nests with soft materials like fabric, paper, and cloth scraps. Mice can settle in small cracks and cavities, making them difficult to catch. 

Accessibility: Mice can easily enter homes through very small openings, even less than 6 mm. 

Habitat: Rats prefer dark and damp places such as basements, storage rooms, and under floors. 

Housing: They build their nests with stronger materials like cardboard, wood, and metal scraps. Rats need larger spaces to establish their nests and can create complex networks of pathways. 

Accessibility: Rats require larger openings to enter, usually at least 1 cm in diameter. 

Diseases: Mice can spread diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus through droppings and urine. 

Damage: They gnaw on wires and insulation, which can lead to fire hazards and damage to building materials. 

Food poisoning: Their droppings can contaminate food and surfaces, increasing the risk of food poisoning. 

Diseases: Rats spread more serious diseases such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and tularemia. 

Damage: Their stronger teeth and larger bodies allow them to cause greater structural damage, including to electrical wires that can lead to short circuits and fires. 

Fire risk: Gnawed electrical wires are a particularly dangerous risk, as they can cause fires in homes and buildings. 

Traps: Use small traps that are specific for mice. These can be poison-free and catch mice alive. 

Poison: Chemical-based control agents can be effective but should be used with caution, especially if you have pets or children. 

Prevention: Seal all possible entrances and cracks. Store food in airtight containers and keep areas clean from food residues. 

Larger traps: Use larger and stronger traps or poison that are designed for rats. 

Professional help: For extensive rat problems, it may be best to hire professional pest controllers who have the expertise and resources to handle the problem effectively. 

Prevention: Identify and eliminate their nests and pathways. Seal all larger openings and reduce access to food and water.