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Request a free quoteSpotting a suspicious dropping under your desk or near the skirting board at home? It might be more than just a mess – it could be a warning sign of a larger pest problem. In South Africa, pest infestations in both homes and office environments are more common than you’d think. Recognising early signs – especially droppings or damages is key to protecting your health and property.
In this guide, we’ll help you identify common pest droppings, understand the associated risks and know when it’s time to bring in the professionals.
Common Types of Pest Droppings in South Africa
Rodent Droppings (Including Roof Rats)
Rodents like roof rats and house mice leave behind small, pellet-shaped droppings.
- Roof rat droppings are typically 12–13 mm long, dark and pointed at both ends.
- Mouse droppings are smaller, around 3–6 mm and resemble black grains of rice.
Fresh droppings are dark and moist, while older ones turn grey and dry out.
Bat Droppings (Guano)
Often found in roof spaces or attics, bat guano can be mistaken for rodent droppings — but there’s a key difference.
- Bat droppings crumble into fine dust, often with visible insect parts, due to their insect-based diet.
- Found in clusters, usually beneath roosting sites in ceilings or eaves
Cockroach Droppings/ Fecal Marks
- Small droppings are cylindrical with ridges, while larger species may leave smear marks in high-moisture areas.
- Commonly found behind appliances, inside drawers, and under sinks.
Why You Should Never Handle Droppings Bare-Handed
All pest droppings – especially those of rodents, cockroaches and bats can carry dangerous pathogens. These include Salmonella, Leptospirosis and Hantavirus, among others.
Handling droppings without protection can:
- Spread diseases via airborne particles
- Contaminate surfaces and food
- Trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues
Always wear gloves and a mask if you must clean up minor messes and disinfect thoroughly afterwards.
More Signs of Pest Infestation to Watch For
Droppings are just one clue. Here are additional red flags that suggest a pest infestation:
- Gnawed wires or furniture (rodents)
- Strange odours (ammonia smell is common with rats and mice)
- Grease marks or smears along walls or baseboards
- Noises in the ceiling or walls, especially at night
- Shed skins or egg casings (cockroaches)
Early detection is crucial. Ignoring these signs could lead to structural damage, health hazards and costly repairs.
Why Call a Professional Pest Control Service?
While store-bought sprays and traps offer temporary relief, they rarely solve the root of the problem. A professional service like CCM Pest Control uses safe, effective and targeted methods to:
- Identify the source and type of infestation
- Treat the infestation thoroughly
- Provide ongoing prevention strategies
Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with roof rats in the ceiling or a corporate client tackling cockroaches in the breakroom, contact CCM today for professional Pest Control Services.
