Cottonwood's Exclusion-First Rodent Team

Rat droppings run larger, roughly rice-grain size or bigger; mouse droppings are smaller and more pointed, and noise timing differs too. We also inspect the roofline and chimney area during a standard visit, since those are entry points homeowners rarely think to check themselves.

Yes — trapping clears what's inside now, but sealing is what keeps the next one from moving in. A thorough seal job on the first visit is what actually prevents a second call a few months later, which is why we'd rather spend extra time sealing than rush to the next job.

Dry sweeping can release airborne particles, so it's safer to leave cleanup to the visit.

Most homes wrap in one visit for trapping and sealing, with a follow-up a week or two out to confirm.

Mechanical trapping and sealing come first, especially around pets and kids; bait stations are reserved for specific situations like commercial perimeters.

Easy food access, standing water, clutter, and unsealed foundation gaps are the usual suspects. We recommend a seasonal walk-around of the foundation, since freeze-thaw cycles can open new gaps.