Types of Rodents in Louisiana

Did you know there are more than 2,000 kinds of rodents around the world? They range from harmless outdoor rodents like squirrels and chipmunks to potentially dangerous home intruders like mice and rats. One common trait shared by rodents is they can adjust to different environments easily. Unfortunately, this adaptability means that if they find their way onto your property, they can quickly find the resources they need to survive, and they won’t want to leave anytime soon. So, let’s talk about the types of rodents in Southern Louisiana you’re most likely to come across.

The most common types of rodents in Lousiana include:

• Gray squirrel
• Red squirrel
• Eastern fox squirrel
• Chipmunk
• Mole
• Gopher
• Deer mouse
• House mouse
• Meadow vole
• Norway rat
• Roof rat
• Nutria

Common Rats & Mice Found in Louisiana Homes and Businesses

Most rodents are content to remain in their outdoor environment. Rats and mice are two of the most dangerous types of rodents because they will actively seek food and shelter inside human structures. 

Here are a the most common types of rats and mice to watch for in our region:

• Deer mouse: Naturally found in wooded areas and agricultural areas, deer mice are carriers of Hantavirus. This makes them especially dangerous when they enter homes.
• House mouse: The most common type of mouse in the country, house mice prefer dark and secluded areas. They’re good at climbing, and can cause damage through gnawing, including damage to electronics and wiring.
• Meadow vole: Small, round, and furry, voles are often found in grassy or marshy environments.
• Norway rat: The Norway rat enjoys burrowing. If they burrow under your structure, it can cause extensive damage.
• Roof rat: Roof rats climb on trees and are known for accessing buildings via roofs. In the Middle Ages, they were responsible for spreading the bubonic plague.

Other Rodents You’ll Find in Southern Louisiana

Mice and rats may actively try to get into your home or business for all the resources inside. Other rodents like squirrels and chipmunks can also accidentally wander inside, get lost, or get trapped, which may lead to extensive damage. 

Here are some common rodent issues property owners in Louisiana run into:

• Squirrels and Chipmunks: When these animals get trapped in your attic or another part of your house, they may panic and chaos may ensue. The best way to prevent damage in this situation is to call speak with one of our wildlife control specialists.
• Moles and Gophers: These burrowing animals can damage your yard. They’re especially frustrating if you’ve put extensive effort into your landscaping. Their holes are also major trip hazards that can lead to injury.
• Nutria: Nutria are invasive rodents that resemble small beavers. They can cause devastating damage to the southern Louisiana environment, so if you see one, be sure to call our wildlife control specialists to take care of it.

What Type Of Rodent Do I Have?

If you’re hearing scratching sounds, or you’ve noticed signs of rodent activity around the house, calling a professional rodent control expert and figuring out which type of rodent it is should be your next step. While rodents are not usually aggressive, they can be dangerous in many ways.

For expert rat and mouse control in Louisiana, call Ja-Roy today!