TAMPA, FL — Rats and mice are common in many U.S. cities, and cities in Florida are no exception. In fact, six cities in the Sunshine State are among the top 50 rodent-infested cities in the country, according to the pest control company Terminix.
Rodents can be a persistent problem in cities because of access to food waste, sanitation practices and suitable habitats, according to Terminix. Cities with the most rats and mice often have high population densities, with easy access to food and mild climates.
The creatures can create public health concerns and cause significant property damage.
Terminix looked at data from its more than 300 branches nationwide to determine which cities most frequently used rodent control services.
New York City was the top city that used rodent control services most frequently last year, according to Terminix. Los Angeles claimed the second spot, followed by the San Francisco Bay area, Philadelphia and Chicago.
These are the Florida cities that landed on the list:
No. 15: Tampa-St. Pete (Sarasota)No. 18: Orlando-Daytona Beach-MelbourneNo. 27: Miami-Ft. LauderdaleNo. 42: JacksonvilleNo. 45: West Palm Beach-Ft. PierceNo. 50: Ft Myers-Naples
Signs of a rodent infestation include:
Small droppings in your home, often in the back of drawers and cabinets, and on the floor along wallsHoles or gnaw marks in food packagingChewed wires or floor moldingUrine stains in the corner of shelves, the back of drawers, or cabinetsNesting debris found (chewed paper, cardboard, insulation, other fibrous materials)Scratching or thumping in walls
To prevent mice and rats from entering your home, Terminix suggests you:
Seal cracks and openings around doors, windows, and foundations, using durable materials.Store food in airtight containers.Keep your living spaces clean, promptly removing crumbs and food residues.Regularly dispose of garbage in tightly sealed bins to minimize food sources.Organize cluttered storage areas to limit potential nesting sites.
The full list of the most rodent-infested cities is available on Terminix’s website.