Rats vs. Mice: Identifying and Dealing with Most Common Rodents in California

Rats and mice are two of the most common rodents in California, yet they are often mistaken for one another. Fair enough—they almost look the same enough. If you are having a difficult time telling which one is a mouse and which one is a rat, let’s break down the differences between rats and mice.

What’s the Difference Between Rats and Mice?

Rats and mice are both rodents, but they belong to different genera, so they have several key differences in size, appearance, and behavior.

Size

The first thing you should look at is the size. Rats are larger than mice with adults typically growing 6 to 16 inches in length. On the other hand, mice are smaller and more slender, typically only 1 to 4 inches long.

Another visible difference also is the length of the tail with mice typically having longer tails relative to their body size, whereas rats have shorter tails in proportion to their larger bodies. Their ears can tell the difference too as mice have larger ears than rats.

Features

In addition to their size, mice and rats also have some other distinguishing physical features. Rats have thicker, blunter snouts than mice, and their ears are also relatively smaller in proportion to their bodies. Additionally, rats’ tails are typically hairless and scaly, while mice’s tails are covered in fur.

Behavior

In terms of behavior, the difference is subtle. While both mice and rats are known for their ability to adapt to various environments, their behavior can differ.

Rats are often more cautious and may take some time to get used to new objects or changes in their environment. Rats are more social creatures than mice, and they are often seen living in groups or colonies. 

Meanwhile, mice tend to be more curious and explorative. But they are more solitary animals, and they tend to avoid contact with other mice.

Additionally, rats are more aggressive and destructive than mice, and they are often considered to be pests. If you need rodent-proofing your property, check out these tips and tricks to help you.

Reproduction

In terms of reproduction, mice and rats are the same prolific breeders. However, their reproductive rates vary.

Female mice reach sexual maturity for 4 to 5 days. Once they get pregnant, they give birth after 19 to 21 days, depending on the species. Each litter consists of 5 to 8 pups. Females can reproduce up to 10 times per year. Newborn mice are blind and hairless.

Meanwhile, female rats are in heat every 4 to 5 days and can go into heat again within 48 hours of giving birth. The gestation period is between 21 and 23 days, depending on the species. Each litter consists of 5 to 12 pups, depending on the species.

Make sure to avoid breeding rodents. Check out the most common causes of rodent infestations.

Seek Help from Rodent Control Experts

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate rodents like rats and mice. We offer QualityPro-certified rodent control treatments to eliminate all types of rodents. Learn more about our Rat Control Service and Mice Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call Pro Pacific Pest Control at 619-494-3380 to schedule a FREE inspection and estimate!