Rats and mice
Note sightings, droppings, gnaw marks and noises, plus the rooms or building edges involved. Avoid disturbing contaminated material while collecting information.
Pest identification
Seen activity? Start with the details.
A clear description of where and when activity occurs helps us plan the right inspection.
Cockroaches
Record the location, approximate size and whether activity occurs around warmth, moisture or food areas. A clear photograph can assist identification.
Ants
Describe the trail, entry location and affected areas. Activity on a surface does not by itself reveal the full colony location.
Flies
Note the type of area affected, time of activity and any nearby waste or moisture. Different fly problems can have different sources.
Birds
Describe the roosting or access location, when birds are present and whether nesting activity is visible. Observe from a safe position and discuss the site before exclusion work.
Further reading: Victorian Department of Health pest-control technical notes.
Start with the building