5 rodent species one should know about

Rodents are all around us– whether in busy cities, villages, or even inside our homes and offices. They are highly adaptable, which helps them survive in many places, but it also means they can cause problems like spreading disease and damaging property.

In this article, we explore five types of rodents commonly seen near people, not just in India, but in many parts of the world. Some are well-known, while others are less noticed. By learning about their behaviour and the risks they pose, we can take better steps to keep them under control and protect our surroundings.

Norway rats are among the most common rodents in cities. They are active at night and usually live in quiet places near food, like garbage areas or under buildings. They can chew through many materials, which often leads to damage in homes, wires, and pipes. These rats eat almost anything– food waste, pet food, or whatever they can find.

More importantly, they can spread diseases to humans. That’s why it’s important to keep them away. Since they can enter through small holes, sealing all possible entry points is one of the best ways to prevent an infestation.

Roof rats, also known as black rats, like to stay in high places such as rooftops, attics, and trees. They are skilled climbers and swimmers, which helps them find food and shelter in cities and towns, especially in southern and coastal parts of India.

They mainly eat fruits, seeds, and nuts. That’s why it's important to clean up fallen fruit and keep garbage covered, especially in gardens and around homes. Roof rats can also carry diseases, either through direct contact or by fleas they host.

House mice are small but can become a big problem quickly. They often live indoors, building nests in quiet, dark spots using materials like paper, cloth, or insulation. Even a few mice can turn into many, as they reproduce very fast. They can damage homes by chewing on wires and walls, and they often contaminate food with their droppings and urine. House mice can also spread germs and trigger allergies.

Deer mice are mostly found in rural areas and forests. They build nests in tree holes, old sheds, or wooden cabins. During cold weather, they may move into homes or barns to find warmth and food. One major concern with deer mice is that they can carry hantavirus, a serious illness that spreads through dust from their droppings or urine.

Prairie dogs live in open grasslands and build large underground colonies. They usually avoid people, but their burrows can attract dangerous animals like snakes and venomous spiders, which may pose risks nearby. These rodents can also carry fleas that sometimes spread diseases like the plague. While such cases are rare, they can still be a concern in certain regions.