Tucson Rodent Questions and Answers
These are the questions Tucson callers ask us most. If yours isn't here, call and ask. For more depth, see our rodent services for Tucson homes or the Tucson rodent guides.
Questions and Answers
So who actually comes out to my house?
A technician from an independent, licensed pest control company that works your part of town. We answer the phone, they do the work. Our About page explains the rest.
What kind of rodents do we get in Tucson?
Pack rats (mostly white-throated woodrats) are the big one. House mice and deer mice are common too, and roof rats have turned up in midtown neighborhoods in recent years.
How do I tell what I've got?
Pack rats have big ears, soft fur and a furry tail, and they build stick and cactus piles. Roof rats are slim with a bare, scaly tail and climb trees. Mice are small. Our page on Tucson roof rats covers the climbing kind.
Why are there so many pack rats around my house?
Washes, cactus, mesquite and woodpiles give them food and cover. Homes near the Rillito, Pantano Wash, the Santa Cruz or open desert see more of them. Our midden guide explains why the same spot keeps getting reused.
Is rat bait safe with my dog around?
Loose bait isn't safe for pets or wildlife. Techs use locked, tamper-resistant bait stations, and plenty use traps instead. Ask about pet-safe options on the call.
Should I be worried about hantavirus?
It's rare but serious, and it's linked to deer mice. Air the space out, wear gloves, wet the droppings with bleach solution and wipe them up. Never sweep or vacuum them dry. Our cleanup guide lists every step.
A pack rat chewed my car wires. Now what?
Have a mechanic check the car, take photos for insurance, and deal with the nest nearby. Our page on pack rats in car engines explains how the source gets found.
Does it cost anything to call?
No. The call is free. Any work gets quoted by the company that does it.
Can you give me a price over the phone?
We don't set prices. The company quotes it after seeing your property, and any guarantee or warranty comes from them too.
Are the companies licensed?
Yes, they hold Arizona pest control licensing. Ask for their license details on the call, or look them up through the Arizona Department of Agriculture.