SPECIMEN: RATTUS NORVEGICUS / MUS MUSCULUS

Species Profile

Rodents

Rattus norvegicus / Mus musculus

Threat Level: High (4/5)Eco Impact Rating: 4/5

order

Rodentia

family

Muridae

lifespan

12–18 months

colony

Up to 200 in optimal conditions

The Western Cape hosts three primary pest rodent species: the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), the roof rat (Rattus rattus), and the house mouse (Mus musculus). Each species occupies different ecological niches — Norway rats burrow, roof rats colonise elevated spaces, and house mice exploit any available void. All three pose significant health risks, responsible for the transmission of Leptospirosis, Hantavirus, and Salmonella.

Biology & Behaviour

Rodents are neophobic (fear of new objects), making control highly strategic. House mice reproduce at 6 weeks old and can produce 10 litters of 5–8 pups per year. Rats are highly intelligent with exceptional memory of their territories. Rodents gnaw continuously — not from hunger, but to maintain incisor length. A single rat can gnaw through lead pipes, concrete and aluminium sheeting.

Signs of Infestation

Infestation Indicators

Gnaw marks on food packaging, wiring, wood and plastic

Droppings — rat droppings are 15–20mm, mouse droppings 3–6mm, spindle-shaped

Burrows along walls, under slabs or in garden banks

Greasy rub marks along wall-floor junctions (sebum from fur)

Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls, ceilings or subfloor at night

Nesting material (shredded paper, fabric, insulation) in hidden areas

Clinical Organicism Protocol

Remediation Protocol

The Eco Pestelence 4-phase intervention methodology, calibrated specifically for rodents.

Phase 01

Detection

Comprehensive property survey mapping all runways, entry points, burrows and harborage zones. Non-toxic tracking dust application to confirm active runs. Photography and mapping report issued to client.

Phase 02

Isolation

Physical exclusion of all entry points ≥6mm with stainless steel mesh, expanding foam and rodent-proof sealant. Gap survey report with rectification priority list. External harborage reduction advisory.

Phase 03

Neutralization

Tamper-resistant bait stations deployed on confirmed runways — exterior and interior as required. First-generation anticoagulant rodenticide used preferentially to reduce secondary poisoning risk to raptors and predators. Snap trapping in sensitive internal areas (food preparation, children's spaces).

10-Day Elimination Programme

The initial treatment eliminates active pests while eggs continue hatching over the following days — newly hatched pests contact the residual treatment, progressively clearing the infestation within ~10 days.

Phase 04

Shielding

Bait station maintenance and monitoring program (monthly inspections). Consumption records maintained to track population pressure. Exclusion integrity re-inspection at 6-month intervals.

Eco Commitment

We prioritise first-generation anticoagulants and physical trapping to protect the Western Cape's raptor population — including barn owls and caracals — from secondary poisoning. Second-generation rodenticides used only in severe, contained situations.

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