Problems with mice & rats
 Rodents most commonly seen in and around dwellings in the Bay Area include house mice, Norway rats and roof rats (also known as black rats). They are not native to North America and cause millions of dollars of damage each year, can cause food poisoning, and spread diseases to humans such as plague and typhus. We also have native rodents such as deer mice, harvest mice, California voles, and dusky-footed wood rats (also known as packrats). These are usually seen away from homes, but can sometimes be found close to or in dwellings. |
Rodent traps for non-natives
Do not use glue traps or poison. Glue traps are inhumane and can catch unintended victims such as lizards and birds. Poisoned rodents may secondarily poison predators or pets. Snap traps are the most humane. |
Discouraging all rodents
Alteration of habitat will be the most successful way to reduce rodent populations. Trapping will not keep other rodents from being attracted to food and shelter in the area. Keep leaf litter, lumber, trash, brush, wood and rock piles to a minimum to reduce hiding places for rodents. Ground covers such as ivy are commonly used by non-native rodents. Remove all sources of food. Seal all entrances into your house. Mice can get through a hole the size of a dime; rats can get through the hole the size of a quarter. |
Wild rodents as pets
Wild rodents do not make good pets. They carry diseases and can be very aggressive. They are not tame like domestic rodents that have been selectively bred for captivity for many generations. |
Releasing rodents
It is illegal to relocate any mammal. It is also not fair to the neighbors. Non-native rodents are considered pests and cause damage to dwellings and food. They can spread diseases. |
