| General Rat and Mouse Facts
The two most common species of rats are the Norway (brown) rat and the Roof (black) rat. Mice are much smaller than rats and include a variety of species.
Contaminating food and destroying property, rats  and mice have been a problem for homeowners for centuries. In fact, the words mouse actually means “little thief”. In addition to this destruction, they are also disease carriers and can spread serious illness through to people and pets. Rodents are essentially nocturnal animals; you will rarely see them during the daytime. When a homeowner finds evidence of a mouse, it is highly likely there is more than just one mouse in the house. Mice reproduce rapidly and a single female mouse may produce up to 60 offspring each year. If unchecked, a mouse infestation has the potential to grow quickly over a fairly short period of time. It’s important to take steps to control these critters by using repellents, traps, rodenticides and prevention measures. See Control Options for more information about these control methods. Rat and Mouse Reproduction
Rats can have anywhere from 4-12 pups per litter and 3-7 litters per year depending on the species of rat. Within their lifespans, which can be up to 3 years, these rats can have dozens of offspring who are themselves ready to breed in 2 - 6 months.
In addition, most rats can breed all year long. No wonder rats are the second most numerous mammals on earth, next to humans! Mice can produce anywhere from 4-7 pups per litter and about 2-10 litters per year depending on the species. These offspring are ready to reproduce after reaching 1 month of age! Mice live up to 2 years and like the rat, can breed all year long. Rat Habitat
The two most common species of rats are the Norway or brown rat and the  Roof or black rat. Norway Rats can be found throughout the US and Canada, residing in sewers, basements, back alleys, parks, abandoned properties and lower portions of buildings.
Roof Rats can be found in cities near the coasts, preferring attics, ceilings, or wall areas in upper portions of buildings. They are smaller than the 16” long Norway Rat. Mice are much smaller than rats. They are made up of several species with the most common including the house mouse, the deer mouse, and the field mouse or vole. Like rats, mice are found throughout the United States and Canada.
Rat and Mouse Diet
The diet of rats and mice varies with the species, although most of these rodents eat meats, seeds and fruits. Mice will also eat insects.
Of course, they are all happy to eat seeds spilled from bird feeders as well as pet food left outdoors, so caution should be used if you suspect rodents may be nearby.  Dr. T’s Nature Products® offers a variety of
innovative solutions to effectively control rodents by providing powerful, natural products for your specific rat and mouse control needs. | 
