The biggest difference between mice and rats is their size, with rats being larger than mice.
Read on to determine how to eliminate your rodent problem.
A mouse will build its nest in a hidden area near a food source.
Argument / Getty Images
It will use just about any soft material or finely shredded paper to build its nest.
Mice usually live for about 12-18 months.
Mice Movement
Mice can stand up on their hind legs when supported by their tails.
The Spruce / Catherine Song
They do this to eat, fight, or figure out where they are.
Mice are excellent jumpers, swimmers, and climbers.
They can even climb up rough, vertical surfaces.
They can jump 13 inches high and run along wires, cables, and ropes.
Mice are fast runners.
Moving on all four legs, they hold their tail up straight for balance.
But if they are frightened, they will just run straight out.
Mice are nocturnal and most active from dusk until dawn.
A mouse can slip through 1/4-inch holes and gaps.
Rats need 1/2 to one ounce of fluid each day.
If rats do not get this in the food they eat, they have to find water.
The Norway rat lives mostly in burrows while the roof rat nests in walls, attics, and trees.
Per year, a female Norway rat can have seven litters of up to 12 young.
These rats can start to breed by the time they are three months old.
Rats breed primarily in the spring.
Rats live for about two years in the wild.
The roof rat has smaller litters of up to eight young and can have six litters per year.
Rat Movement
Rats canenter a buildingthrough a hole as small as 1/2 inch in diameter.
A rat will climb to get to the food, water, or shelter.
Rats follow regular routines and paths each day.
If new objects are set in its path, it will do whatever it can to avoid it.
Rats usually stay within 300 feet of their nest or burrow.
