Little Critters, Big Impact .. A Guide to Common Rodent Species in the United Arab Emirates 2024

The United Arab Emirates is home to several rodent species that can pose challenges to both residential and commercial properties, Understanding these creatures can help in effective pest control and prevention، Here’s A guide to Common Rodent Species in the UAE.

Common Rodent Species in the United Arab Emirates

Here, we will focus on the most Common Rodent Species in the United Arab Emirates:

House Mice

•  It is Small, gray rodent with a slender body and long tail.
• We can Find it in a variety of environments, including homes, businesses, and warehouses.
• They are Capable of rapid reproduction, house mice can cause significant property damage, contaminate food, and transmit diseases.

 Roof Rats (Rattus rattus)

• Larger than house mice, with a brown or black coat and a long tail.
• It is Primarily found in attics, ceilings, and upper floors of buildings.
• Roof rats can cause structural damage, contaminate food, and spread diseases such as hantavirus.

Gerbils (various species)

• It’s Characteristics, Small, desert-adapted rodents with a short tail and long hind legs.
• Typically, found in arid environments, including deserts and semi-deserts.
• Gerbils can cause damage to crops and gardens, and may burrow in foundations or walls.

Other Rodents

• Norway Rats are the most Common Rodent Species, they are Large rodents often found in sewers and basements.
• White-footed Mice, Small rodents typically found in forested areas.
• The prevalence of these rodent species may vary depending on location, environmental conditions, and human activities. Effective pest control measures are essential to prevent infestations and mitigate the associated risks.

Identifying a Rat Infestation in Dubai

Dubai, like many urban areas, can be susceptible to rat infestations. Here are some signs to look for that might indicate a rodent problem:

• Direct Sightings, The most obvious sign is, of course, seeing a rat. You may encounter them in attics, basements, or other areas of your property.
• Rats leave behind small, dark droppings that are often shaped like rice grains. Look for them in areas where rats frequent, such as near food sources or along walls.
• Rats have strong teeth and can gnaw through a variety of materials. Look for gnaw marks on wood, plastic, or insulation.
• Rats leave behind greasy tracks on surfaces they walk on. These tracks can be found on floors, countertops, or along walls.
• Rats build nests in secluded areas, often using materials like paper, cardboard, or insulation. Look for nests in attics, basements, or wall voids.
• You may hear scratching or squeaking noises in walls or ceilings, especially at night. These sounds could be indicative of a rodent infestation.
• Rats are omnivores and can damage food packaging or consume food directly، so you should look for signs of tampering or missing food items.

Diseases Caused by Rats and Rodents in the UAE

Rats and rodents can pose significant health risks by transmitting diseases to human, Here are some common diseases that can be spread by these pests in the United Arab Emirates:

Hantavirus

• It can transmit Through contact with infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.
• Common symptoms are Fever, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, and respiratory problems.

Leptospirosis

• It can transmit through contact with infected rodent urine or contaminated water.
• Fever, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and jaundice are the main symptoms.

Salmonellosis

• Transmission By consuming contaminated food or water.
• Common Symptoms are Diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting.

Rat Bite Fever

• Through a bite from an infected rat or by handling infected rodents.
•  Fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, and a rash.

Plague

• Transmission Through a flea bite from a rodent infected with the plague bacterium.
• The Symptoms are Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, and swollen lymph nodes.

E. coli

• It transmits through contact with infected rodent feces or contaminated food or water.
• Diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting are symptoms.

Professional Pest Control for Rodents

If you’re struggling with a rodent infestation that you can’t handle on your own, it’s time to consider professional pest control services. Here’s why:

Benefits of Professional Pest Control

• Professional pest control technicians have the knowledge and experience to identify and eliminate rodent infestations effectively.
• They have access to specialized tools and equipment that can reach hard-to-reach areas where rodents may be hiding.
• Professional technicians use safe and effective methods to control rodents, minimizing the risk to humans, pets, and the environment.
• They can provide advice on how to prevent future infestations and protect your property.

What to Expect from a Professional Pest Control Service?

•  A technician will conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify the extent of the infestation and potential entry points.
• Based on the inspection, they will develop a customized treatment plan to eliminate the rodents and prevent future infestations.
• The technician will apply appropriate treatments, which may include bait stations, traps, or other methods.
• They will monitor the situation and provide follow-up treatments as needed.

Choosing a Professional Pest Control Company

• Ensure the company is licensed and certified to provide pest control services in your area.
• Look for a company with experience in rodent control and a proven track record of success.
• Read reviews from previous customers to get an idea of their satisfaction with the service.
• Ask about any guarantees or warranties offered by the company.
• The cost of professional rodent pest control service
• The cost of professional rodent pest control in the UAE can vary depending on several factors, including:
• The Extent of the infestation, Larger infestations will generally require more time and resources, leading to higher costs.
• The size of the property being treated will also influence the cost.
• Different rodent species may require different treatment methods, which can affect the price.
• Costs may vary slightly depending on the specific location within the UAE.
• Different pest control companies may have varying pricing structures.

some interesting facts about rats

• Rats are very smart animals, They can solve puzzles and remember things.
• Rats live together in groups called colonies.
• Rats can live in many different places.
• Also, Rats have been around for a long time and have played a role in human history.
• They are talented Rats have special skills, like a good sense of smell and touch.