Common Rodents in Massachusetts & What to Do About Them

Hearing tiptoeing in the night and finding chewed wires? Yah Huh, you have rodents on your property. Whether a mouse, rat, or vole, discover common rodents in Massachusetts and what to do about them. Just like Gronk smashing through defensive lines, tackle this pest problem head-on. 

Explore the most effective solutions for handling a rodent problem: from using traps and bait stations to enlisting the help of a professional. Keep in mind that there are regulations in Massachusetts regarding rodent control, whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, so it’s essential not to overlook them.

From Boston to Springfield, Worcester to Lowell, rodent problems are no match for the Massachusetts spirit. Show those rodents what it means to be champions, just like the best tight end on the field! Take proactive steps to prevent infestations, such as sealing entry points and maintaining a clean home. Familiarize yourself with the signs of rodent activity and be prepared to take action promptly.

Common Rodents of Massachusetts 

Grab your Dunkin’ Donuts coffee and discover the different types of rodents in Massachusetts that are considered pests.

House Mice

House mice are known for their small size and adaptable behavior. They are the most common type of mice in Massachusetts.

Appearance

House mice are small and slender, with slightly pointy noses, small black eyes, and big ears. They typically range in color from light brown to gray and measure around 5 to 7 inches in length, including their 3 to 4 inch tail, which is almost furless. Adults weigh about half an ounce.

Behavior

House mice are resourceful nest builders, using shredded paper or other fibrous materials to create nests, often in quiet corners like old storage containers, drawers, floors, or even within the walls. They emit a distinctive musky odor. These mice seek refuge and food in homes, easily slipping into buildings through openings as small as a dime (0.25 inches). They are primarily nocturnal but can also be active during the day.

Signs of Infestation

Keep an eye out for these telltale signs of a house mouse infestation:

• Sightings: While house mice are typically more active at night, don’t be surprised if you spot one during daylight hours.

• Droppings: Look for small pellets scattered where the mice have been, they’re about 3 to 6 mm long and resemble black grains of rice with pointed tips.

• Gnawing: Check for signs of gnawing or chewing on various materials like wood, paper, or wiring.

• Nests: Discover shredded materials like paper, fabric, or insulation used to fashion nests in hidden or secluded spots.

• Sounds: Listen for nocturnal noises such as scratching, squeaking, or scampering emanating from walls, ceilings, or floorboards.

• Odor: Keep your nose alert for a musky, ammonia-like smell, particularly in enclosed spaces or poorly ventilated areas – it could indicate the presence of mouse urine or feces.

Field Mice

Field mice, also known as deer mice, are known for their distinct appearance.

Appearance

Field mice have large eyes and a striking white underside. Their backs are dark colors, while their bellies are white. Their tails are moderately furred, light on the bottom, and darker on top. This is a small rodent in Massachusetts with a length of 5 to 8 inches from nose to tail.

Behavior

Field mice are resourceful nest builders, gathering stems, twigs, leaves, and grassroots, along with other fibrous materials. Their nests can be found in various locations, from tree hollows to the undersides of rocks and logs, and sometimes even in buildings. They can also repurpose abandoned nests from squirrels or birds. 

Field mice are nocturnal, spending their days in their nests. While they don’t hibernate, they enter a state of dormancy during winter, often huddling together in family groups to keep warm.

Signs of Infestation

Indicators of a deer mice infestation:

• Droppings: Keep an eye out for small, dark feces scattered on kitchen floors and close to baseboards.

• Gnawing activity: Deer mice are notorious for chewing through food packaging to reach their meal. They also leave behind gnaw marks on wood, fabric, and plastic surfaces.

• Nests: These field mice are adept at constructing nests in dark, secluded corners of your home, such as within mattresses.

Roof Rats

Roof rats are a common type of rat in Massachusetts, known for their sleek appearance and high climbing abilities.

Appearance

Roof rats have sleek and slender bodies with large eyes, prominent ears, and a pointy nose. Their brown fur has black spots, while their undersides can showcase shades of white, gray, or black. Adult roof rats typically measure between 6 to 8 inches in head and body length, with tails ranging from 7 to 10 inches. In total, they can exceed 16 inches in length. 

Despite their slender appearance, they can weigh between 5 to 9 ounces on average, with some individuals reaching up to 12 ounces.

Behavior

True to their name, roof rats prefer heights. They often travel along power lines, tree limbs, and downspouts, eventually making their way into roofs and attics. They are adept climbers and can quickly infest buildings, seeking shelter and food sources.

Signs of Infestation

Indicators of roof rats in your home:

• Droppings: Keep an eye out for dark, capsule-shaped droppings, typically around half an inch long with pointed ends. You might find them scattered around food storage areas, along baseboards, and in attic spaces.

• Scratching noises: Listen for scratching or scurrying sounds emanating from walls, ceilings, or attic spaces, especially during the night when rodents are most active.

• Gnaw marks: Check for chew marks on wood, plastic, or wiring, particularly in attics, along rooflines, and near potential entry points.

• Visible rats or scurrying movement: Spotting rats running along tree limbs, roofs, or power lines could indicate an infestation.

• Fruit or nut damage: Keep an eye out for partially eaten fruit or nuts in your yard or near bird feeders, as roof rats are known to feed on these items and may bring them into your home.

• Grease marks: Look for greasy smudges along walls and baseboards, left behind as rats navigate through narrow passages.

• Nesting materials: Watch for shredded paper, fabric, or plant matter, which roof rats use to construct nests, typically found in the insulation of areas like attics and walls.

• Pet behavior: Pay attention to your pet’s behavior, as they may show interest in areas where rodents are present.

Norway Rats

The Norway rat is the most common type of rat in Massachusetts. Take a look at their appearance and behavior.

Appearance

Norway rats have blunt noses and small, close-set bald ears. They typically sport dark grey or brown fur on their backs and light grey or brown on their undersides. Their bodies can reach up to 10 inches in length, matched by their tails, which are usually furless and can be pink or brown. 

This is a large rodent with adult males weighing around 19 ounces and females weighing approximately 12 ounces.

Behavior

Norway rats are nocturnal creatures. While they are capable swimmers, they are not as skilled at climbing. They are considered ground rodents in Massachusetts, relying on their digging abilities. This allowed them to create extensive burrow systems, where they built their nests. 

Signs of Infestation

Indicators of Norway rats in your home:

• Droppings: Keep an eye out for larger, blunt-ended, oval-shaped droppings, typically around three-quarters of an inch long. You’ll often find them concentrated along walls, in basements, or near food sources.

• Burrows: Norway rats are skilled diggers, creating burrows in outdoor areas like gardens, under sheds, or near foundations. Keep an eye out for openings roughly 2 to 4 inches in diameter.

• Food damage: Norway rats are omnivorous and will feast on a variety of food items, including grains, fruits, vegetables, and even pet food. Check for chewed packaging, gnaw marks on stored food, or partially eaten items.

• Gnaw marks: Check for chew marks on wood, plastic, or wiring, typically with rough, irregular edges.

• Nesting materials: Watch for shredded paper, cloth, or other fibrous materials used by Norway rats to construct nests in hidden, secluded areas such as burrows, basements, or crawl spaces.

• Grease marks: Look for greasy smudges along walls and baseboards, especially in areas frequently traveled by rats. These marks are left behind by the rats’ oily fur.

• Pet behavior: Pay attention to your pet’s behavior, as they may display signs of agitation, alertness, or attempts to chase or catch rats, especially in areas where rodents are active.

Pack Rats

Pack rats also known as woodrats, are common Massachusetts rodents, here are some of their characteristics.

Appearance

Pack rats weigh between 7 to 21 ounces and measure 13 to 17 inches in length from nose to tail tip. They come in shades of light brown to gray, with a white underside extending from the chin to the tail, including the feet. One of their distinctive features is their long, bushy tail, which is often grayer than the rest of their body.

Behavior

Pack rats prefer constructing their shelters in natural environments such as caves, rockslides, crevices and abandoned man-made structures. They scavenge for objects to collect and hoard within their nests, consuming some items while keeping others as treasures or using them to fortify their nest walls. 

A unique behavior of pack rats is their habit of urinating on everything within their nests to mark territory and assert ownership. Over time, this urine crystallizes, cementing objects in place and contributing to the structural integrity of the nest. 

Signs of Infestation

Discovering signs of pack rats on your property can be a cause for concern. Here are the telltale signs that indicate you may have pack rats making themselves at home:

• Nests: Keep an eye out for large, conspicuous nests constructed from twigs, branches, leaves, and assorted debris. These nests are often nestled in trees, shrubs, woodpiles, or even abandoned structures like sheds or vehicles.

• Collection of shiny objects: Pack rats have a peculiar habit of gathering shiny or colorful items to adorn their nests. Look for piles of small objects such as coins, bottle caps, jewelry, or other shiny trinkets near their nesting sites.

• Gnaw marks: Check for distinctive gnaw marks on wooden structures, wiring, plastic pipes, and other materials. Unlike other rodents, pack rats prefer gnawing on softer materials like wood, leaving behind recognizable markings.

• Droppings: Pack rats droppings are typically smaller and darker compared to those of Norway rats. You may find them scattered near their nests or along their usual travel routes.

• Visual sightings: While pack rats are primarily nocturnal and tend to avoid human contact, you might occasionally catch a glimpse of them during the early morning or evening hours as they scavenge for food or nesting materials.

• Pet behavior: Pay attention to your pet’s behavior, as they may exhibit signs of noticing or attempting to chase pack rats, indicating the presence of these elusive rodents on your property.

Voles

Voles are common rodents in Massachusetts, known for their chestnut-brown hue with black intermingled fur and dark gray underparts.

Appearance

Voles have short and furry tails that transition from dark to light. With compact bodies, short legs, and tiny eyes, they have a round face with a blunt nose. Grown-up voles typically measure around 5 to 7 inches in length, including their tails, and can weigh up to 16 ounces.

Behavior

Voles prefer open areas near houses, such as gardens and lawns, where they make their homes. They dig tunnels underground and spend most of their time moving through these tunnels, which are about 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Unlike some rodents, they don’t climb, so they are not commonly found inside homes but prefer to stay close to their tunnel networks.

Signs of Infestation

Spotting signs of voles on your property can be an indication of potential garden and lawn damage. These small rodents have distinctive behaviors that set them apart from other pests. Here are the key indicators that suggest voles may be on your property:

• Surface runways: Voles create shallow, visible runways in grassy areas, gardens, or under snow cover, typically 1 to 2 inches wide, as they scurry about in search of food.

• Tunnels: Look for small openings in the ground leading to underground tunnels, often concealed beneath vegetation or debris, which voles use for shelter and protection.

• Damage to trees and shrubs: Voles may girdle the bark of trees and shrubs, particularly in winter when food is scarce, leaving behind chew marks and gnawing damage.

• Visible holes: Look for scattered burrow openings, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter, hidden beneath vegetation or mulch in your lawn or garden.

• Frequent sightings: While primarily active at night, you may occasionally spot voles during the day, especially in areas with dense populations or favorable habitat conditions.

• Gnaw marks on vegetation: Voles are herbivores and leave behind gnaw marks or chewed vegetation near plants’ bases or garden edges, feeding on grasses, roots, bulbs, and crops.

• Spongy soil: Beneath your feet, you may notice a slightly spongy sensation in the soil above vole tunnels, which can be shallow or extend up to 12 inches underground.

• Droppings: Keep an eye out for small, cylindrical vole droppings, akin to mouse droppings but slightly larger, often found along their runways or near feeding spots.

How to Remove Rodents in Your Home in Massachusetts

If you’ve spotted a rodent infestation on your property in Massachusetts, it’s time to take action. Ignoring the problem can lead to further damage and health risks. Fortunately, there are three main options to address the issue: traps, bait stations, or hiring a rodent exterminator. 

Traps

When dealing with rodents in your home, traps are a popular and effective solution. There are three main types of traps to choose from:

• Snap traps: These traps have a spring-loaded mechanism that snaps shut when a rodent triggers it. Made of wood or plastic, they’re baited with food to attract rodents (typically peanut butter). Once triggered, the trap delivers a quick and lethal blow, killing the rodent instantly.

Handle snap traps carefully to avoid accidental activation. Keep them away from kids and pets, and place them strategically to reduce the risk of harm to other animals.

• Electronic traps: These traps use modern technology for a quick kill. Equipped with sensors, they detect when a rodent enters and deliver an electric charge to kill it swiftly and painlessly.

While electronic traps offer a hands-free approach, they still need careful handling. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

• Live traps: These traps capture rodents alive, allowing for safe removal and relocation. They’re box-like structures with a trigger mechanism that closes the door once the rodent enters.

Live traps are humane but need careful handling. A frightened rodent may urinate or bite, which could expose you to diseases. Use a towel and gloves when transporting them to minimize the risk of bites or scratches. Release captured rodents at least 5 miles away from your home.

Each trap type has its pros and cons, so choose based on the severity of the infestation and personal preferences.

Bait Stations

In Massachusetts homes, another way to get rid of rodents is by using bait stations. These are containers made to keep rodent bait safe from kids and pets while letting rodents reach it.

These stations are usually sturdy plastic boxes with openings for rodents to get in and eat the bait.

One thing to be careful about with bait stations is that other animals might be attracted to the bait and get hurt if they eat it. The rodent may also die in an inconvenient area of the home, such as within the walls, leading to a foul odor. 

Hire a Rodent Exterminator

The third option for tackling rodent problems on your property is to hire a professional rodent exterminator. These experts typically cost between $245 to $430 for their services, which include a comprehensive treatment plan.

This plan usually involves:

• Inspection: The exterminator will thoroughly inspect your property to identify the extent of the rodent infestation and locate entry points where rodents may be entering your home.

• Pest Removal: Once the inspection is complete, the exterminator will employ various methods to remove the rodents from your property. This may include using traps, bait stations, or other techniques that are only permitted to rodent exterminators.

• Sealing Entry Points: To prevent future infestations, the exterminator will seal off entry points that rodents use to access your home. This helps to make your property less attractive to rodents and reduces the likelihood of future problems.

Hiring a professional rodent exterminator can provide peace of mind knowing that your rodent problem is being handled effectively and safely by trained professionals.

How to Remove Rodents in Your Yard in Massachusetts

If you find yourself grappling with a rodent invasion in your Massachusetts yard, swift action is key to preventing havoc and health hazards. Here are four tried-and-true methods to tackle outdoor rodent infestations:

Flood Out the Burrows

One savvy tactic to send those rodents packing is to flood out their burrows or entry points. Grab a hose and unleash a torrent of water into their tunnels, making them seek refuge elsewhere.

Warning: Be cautious! This approach might provoke the critters, especially if they’re forced to vacate their cozy digs. This method also won’t solve the root cause of your rodent problem. Seal the holes with soil so that the rodents don’t return. 

Use Live Traps

For a humane approach, opt for live traps that capture the rodents without harm. Snap traps and other kill traps, when placed outdoors, may harm non-target wildlife or pets. 

Load up live traps with enticing bait like peanut butter or nuts, enticing the pests inside for capture. Once caught, release them back into the wild, far from your home.

Warning: Handle trapped critters with care, they might get feisty when stressed. Release them at least 5 miles away from your property.

Use Smoke Bombs

Ignite smoke bombs and let them fill the burrows with clouds of smoke and fumes, giving the rodents a swift eviction notice. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely and take necessary safety precautions.

Warning: While smoke bombs can be effective in the short term, they won’t address the root cause of the infestation or prevent future rodent visits. Seal the holes with soil so that the rodents don’t return.

By employing these local-approved methods, you’ll be well on your way to reclaiming your yard from unwanted rodents. However, if the situation gets out of hand, call in a rodent exterminator to help you bid farewell to rodent intruders.

Pest Control Laws for Tenants and Landlords in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, both landlords and tenants need to know their responsibilities regarding pest control. 

State law requires landlords to provide a safe and habitable living environment. Landlords must maintain sanitation in common areas and apartments in buildings with two or more apartments. This means keeping the premises free from pest infestations. 

However, if a pest problem arises due to the tenant’s negligence, the tenant may be held responsible for any damage. 

Rodent Prevention Tips for Your House in Massachusetts

Here are some rodent prevention tips to help keep your home rodent-free:

• Seal entry points: Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and foundations, and seal them with caulk or steel wool. Pay special attention to areas where pipes and wires enter your home.

• Keep food stored securely: Store food in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or durable plastic to prevent rodents from accessing it. Avoid leaving food out on countertops or in open bags.

• Maintain cleanliness: Keep your home clean and clutter-free. Regularly clean up crumbs and spills, and promptly dispose of garbage in sealed bins.

• Trim vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from your home to prevent rodents from using them as a bridge to access your roof or attic.

• Limit outdoor access: Keep outdoor areas tidy and free from debris that could provide hiding spots or nesting materials for rodents.

• Regular inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your home, both indoors and outdoors, to check for signs of rodent activity such as droppings, gnaw marks, or nests.

• Pet food: If you have pets, avoid leaving their food out overnight. Store pet food in secure containers and clean up any spills promptly.

Rodent Prevention Tips for Your Massachusetts Yard

Rodents can be persistent pests, but with proactive measures, you can thwart their attempts to invade your yard and wreak havoc. Here are some tips tailored to the Bay State:

• Maintain your backyard: Keep your outdoor space well-groomed and free from potential rodent hideouts. Trim bushes and shrubs, regularly mow the lawn, and promptly remove any piles of debris or clutter. Store firewood, compost bins, and outdoor trash bins away from your home’s perimeter to discourage rodents from setting up camp nearby.

• Safeguard against voles: Voles, notorious troublemakers in backyard areas, require special attention. Consider installing fences with underground portions to thwart their burrowing endeavors. Protect the base of trees and shrubs with tree guards to prevent vole gnawing. When planting bulbs, use bulb baskets to deter voles from digging them up.

• Remove clutter: Rodents thrive in messy environments, so keep your yard tidy by clearing away piles of wood, debris, and overgrown vegetation.

• Trim vegetation: Trim back tree branches, shrubs, and bushes around your home to eliminate potential hiding spots and entry points for rodents. Maintain a clear space between vegetation and your home’s exterior.

• Clean up bird feeders: Bird feeders can inadvertently attract rodents with spilled seeds. Regularly clean up any seed spillage, bring the feeder indoors at night, and opt for feeders designed to minimize waste.

• Eliminate water sources: Cover your pool, fix leaky faucets promptly, and inspect irrigation lines regularly. Keep a close eye on your pet’s water bowls and promptly address any spills.

• Compost carefully: If you compost, use a fully enclosed bin with a tightly fitting lid. Avoid adding grease, meat, or dairy products to the compost, and keep it moist while regularly turning it. This discourages rodents from nesting in the bin.

By putting these preventive measures into action, you can fortify your yard against rodent intruders and reduce the risk of infestation.

FAQ About Rodents in Massachusetts

Are gophers in Massachusetts considered pests?

Some people may consider gophers pests in the yard or garden, however, gophers  play important roles in ecosystems. They contribute to soil fertility by incorporating plant material and fecal matter into the soil, which enhances nutrient levels. Their burrowing activities also aerate the soil, reducing compaction and allowing for better water infiltration. 

What are some other rodents in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, besides mice, rats and voles, there are chipmunks, muskrats, and beavers which are common. Additionally, porcupines are found in wooded areas across the state.

Are rats a problem in Boston?

Yes, they are. Factors such as dense population, abundant food sources, and suitable habitats like sewers and garbage areas can contribute to rat infestations. Boston, like other cities, has measures in place for rodent control and management to mitigate these issues. 

Are rats aggressive?

Rats can display aggression, particularly when they feel threatened or cornered. Wild rats, such as Norway rats and roof rats, may exhibit defensive aggression, including biting or vocalizing, to protect themselves or their nests.

Are otters and water rats the same?

Otters and water rats are not the same; while both are skilled swimmers and inhabit aquatic environments, they are separate species with their unique behaviors. Otters feed on fish and other aquatic creatures. Water rats have a more rat-like appearance with long, scaly tails. 

How long do wild rats live?

On average, wild rats live for about one to two years in the wild, although their lifespan can vary depending on factors such as predation, availability of food and water, and environmental conditions.

Hire a Pro to Get Rid of Rodents

In the battle against common rodents in Massachusetts, from the mischievous mice to the pesky pack rats, it’s clear that taking action is key. While DIY methods can offer temporary relief, when it comes to ensuring a rodent-free home sweet home, there’s no beating the expertise of a professional. 

Let a pest control professional handle those critters like a wicked good quarterback at Gillette Stadium. After all, why tackle rodents yourself when you can leave it to the pros and get back to enjoying your Dunkin’ coffee without rodent worries?

Main Photo Credit: Seaq68 from Pixabay / Canva Pro / License