Mice are nocturnal creatures, often escaping the notice of homeowners since they are active during the night or dusk when most individuals are asleep, and workplaces are quiet. In Toronto, the three prevalent mouse species are the house mouse, the field mouse (deer mouse), and the white-footed mouse. Now, let's delve into a detailed examination of the most common mouse species.

Remaining active throughout the year, this pest can infiltrate your home at any given moment. It typically resides in and around human structures, making homes in wall voids, storage boxes, attics, barns, sheds, lofts, basements, crawlspaces, cabinets, and warehouses. Measuring between 1 to 4 inches in length, with a tail of equal size, it weighs approximately 0.68 ounces. Featuring small feet and a diminutive head, it possesses large eyes and ears. Indicators of its presence include droppings, gnawed plastic or furniture, tracks, and sightings of the rodent itself. Additionally, it emits a musky odor.

Rats, ubiquitous rodents, are adaptive and resilient creatures with a global presence. Thriving in diverse environments, they coexist closely with human habitats, residing in various locations such as sewers, abandoned buildings, and urban areas. These nocturnal creatures, ranging from brown to black in color, possess robust bodies, typically measuring 9 to 11 inches in length, excluding their equally long tails. Weighing between 7 to 20 ounces, rats exhibit keen intelligence and resourcefulness. Their sharp incisors continuously grow, necessitating constant gnawing to keep them in check. Rats, social animals, often live in colonies, displaying hierarchical structures within their communities. Known vectors for diseases, their presence is indicated by droppings, gnaw marks, and an unmistakable musky scent. Effective pest control measures, such as sealing entry points and proper sanitation, are crucial for mitigating rat infestations and minimizing associated health risks.