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What’s the difference between mice and rats?

In southern New England, we have two types of rats: Norway (brown) and roof (black) rats. For mice, we have deer mice, house mice, and white-footed mice.

If you see something scurry across your garage floor, it is hard to tell what it is. Especially since you see them infrequently, and you only see one of a species.

General differences begin with body size. Mice usually weigh 0.5 ounces. While rats are 7-11 ounces.

Rats have bigger hairless tails that are as long as their bodies. Mice have hairy tails that are shorter than their body length.

Mice have big ears when compared to their body size. Norway rats do not. Roof rats also have big ears.

The last key difference is in the snout. Mice have triangular snouts; rats are more blunt.

How long do rats live?

Rats can live up to two years. One female can have 20 offspring per litter, so the potential for a major infestation is high. 

What do mice look like?

Mice are very small; their bodies are generally 2-3” long. They are typically gray, brown, or black. Their tails are often shorter than their body.

How long do mice live?

House mice can live up to two years. One female can have 3-4 offspring per month in her lifetime, so the potential for a major infestation is high. 

What does mice poop look like?

According to the National Pest Management Association, a mouse produces between 40 to 100 droppings per day, while a rat produces between 20 to 50 droppings.  Mice droppings are typically small, about ¼-inch in length. Mouse droppings are best described as small, pellet-shaped and dark brown in color with pointed ends.  Newer droppings will be darker and shinier while older droppings will look chalky and dry.