For centuries, people have recognized that rats and
mice are not only a nuisance but are a public health
problem. Rats and mice damage and contaminate food,
damage structures, and carry diseases that threaten
Urban rodent surveys of exterior areas are the primary
means for obtaining information on rodent infestations
and on premises with environmental health deficiencies
that support commensal rodent populations in
housing and on premisess. Survey areas should include
residential, commercial, and civic buildings; vacant lots;
and public areas. The rodent species primarily targeted
in surveys are the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus), roof
rat (Rattus rattus), and house mouse (Mus musculus)