Oahu–a true island paradise, home to sun, sand, surf… and rodents?! Yup, that’s right. Along with its incredible natural beauty, Oahu is also home to some not-so-welcome visitors. And I’m not talking about trash-leaving tourists. I’m talking about rodents. Rats, mice, you name it. But fear not, Mid Pacific Pest Control is here with tips and tricks to deal with rodents on Oahu.

Rodents on Oahu: Say Goodbye to Unwanted Guests

There are a few different types of rodents on Oahu, but the most common ones are the roof rat (Rattus rattus), the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), and the house mouse (Mus musculus). Don’t feel like you need to remember or know those fancy species names, thats what the professionals are for. Let’s break it down a bit.

Roof Rat: The roof rat, also known as the black rat, is the most common rat when we talk about rodents on Oahu. It’s a bit smaller than the Norway rat, with a sleeker body and a longer tail. These guys love to climb, and they often make their homes in trees, attics, and roofs.
Norway Rat: The Norway rat, also known as the brown rat, is the second most common rat in Oahu. It’s a bit larger and bulkier than the roof rat, and it prefers to stay on the ground. These rats often make their homes in burrows, sewers, and basements.
House Mouse: The house mouse is, as the name suggests, commonly found in houses. It’s much smaller than the rats, with a lighter build and a pointed snout. These mice are often found in walls, cabinets, and other hidden spots.

Why Are Rodents in Hawaii?

Okay, so we know that rodents are on Oahu, but WHY are they here? Well, the simple answer is that they were brought here by humans. Rats and mice are not native to Hawaii, but they hitched a ride on ships and made themselves at home on the islands. And once they arrived, they thrived. The warm climate, abundant food sources, and lack of natural predators made Oahu a rodent paradise.

Problems Caused by Oahu Rodents

They seem harmless enough, but rodents on Oahu can cause a lot of damage. They chew on everything from wires to insulation to food containers. This can lead to electrical fires, contaminated food, and a whole lot of headaches.

Second, they can spread diseases. Rodents carry all sorts of nasty stuff, from leptospirosis to hantavirus to the bubonic plague. And they can spread these diseases through their urine, feces, and saliva.

Third, they multiply. Fast. A single pair of rats can produce up to 2,000 offspring in a year. Yup, you read that right. 2,000. So, a small problem can quickly become a big one.

Living the Rodent-Free Life on Oahu

When it comes to living free of those pesky rodents on Oahu, remember to keep your home clean, seal up any entry points, and don’t hesitate to call in the professionals like Mid Pacific Pest Control if and when you need to. We’re always here to help make your house feel like a home.