Shrews: How to Identify and Prevent These Pests!

In Alaska, cold temperatures in fall and winter often drive pests inside homes and buildings in search of warmth, food and water. While this is especially common in older homes and unoccupied buildings, pests can make their way into just about any structure by gnawing through walls, crawling through crawl spaces or simply sneaking through open doors and windows at the opportune moment.

One of the most common pests that infests homes and business in the fall and winter is the shrew. Because shrews move fast and have a similar appearance to mice, they are often mistaken for these rodents. However, shrews behave differently from mice and require different removal tactics. Being able to effectively identify shrews can help you ensure that the proper steps are taken by your pest control service in Alaska for removal and prevention.

Shrew basics

Shrews are often mistaken for mice, but these animals aren’t actually rodents at all. In fact, shrews aren’t even related to rodents, and are actually mammals in the Sorex order and are related to moles. Like anteaters and bats, shrews are insectivores, with a carnivorous diet that consists entirely of insects. Because of their diet, shrews are most commonly found outside in yards and gardens where they hunt, but they will seek shelter in homes and other buildings during the fall and winter months. The most effective way to get rid of shrews is through professional rodent control in Alaska.

Identifying a shrew

While mice come in a range of colors, including gray, white, black, brown and multi-colored, shrews are almost always gray in color. Their strongest distinguishing feature is their elongated nose. Shrews also have much smaller eyes than mice do. Another major difference between shrews and mice is the fact that shrews tend to be territorial and aggressive. While mice often live in groups, shrews are almost always spotted alone.

Because shrews are so aggressive, they are far more likely to attack pets, children and even adults if they are provoked. Their aggressive nature and tendency to bite makes it especially important for you to invest in rodent control when you spot a shrew in your home. After you see a shrew, make sure to keep children and pets out of the way and contact a professional who specializes in pest control in Alaska. Leaving a shrew in your home or business can cause a number of negative outcomes. Like mice and rats, shrews carry diseases that can be harmful for you and your family.

Call for rodent control in Alaska

At Pied Piper Pest Control, we know that it can be difficult to properly identify pests, and even more challenging to get rid of them on your own. That’s why we are proud to provide pest removal and prevention services that help customers throughout the state keep their homes and businesses free of unwanted insects and animals. We have over 50 years of experience providing pest and rodent control in Alaska, and we are confident that we have the tools and expertise necessary to address your concerns. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or consultation.

Categorised in: Pest Control, Rodent Control

This post was written by Writer