3 INDICATORS OF PEST INFESTATION

3.1.7 Damage
Damage to jute bags, woven bamboo baskets, and other food storage containers is evidence of rodent presence. The damage to bags consists of frayed holes in the sides, bottom, or top of bagged grain. Grains are usually spilled out and trail away from the bag toward the rodents' burrows or nests. Gnawed holes in the side of grain baskets indicate the presence of rodents in the farm household. Likewise, clothing items, paper materials (books, newspapers, cereal boxes, etc..), and bars of soap may be gnawed upon by rodents in the household.

3.1.8 Sightings
Members of a farm household may sight rodents during the day or night in the farm structures. Sometimes rodents are disturbed during the daytime. The finding of dead rodents inside farm structures is not conclusive evidence of a current infestation since domestic predators like cats or dogs may have brought them in from outside. Trapping is another means of determining if rodents are present.

3.1.9 Sounds
The sounds that rodents make will confirm their presence. These sounds are generally made at night when the rodents are foraging. These sounds may include squeaking, gnawing, rustling or scampering noises from within cabinets, behind furniture, or in any enclosed spaces.

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