Habits: They prefer to nest inside walls, storage boxes, or other concealed places, especially at or below ground level. Once secure, they seek food from garbage, boxed foods, and grains such as bird feed. Their nests consist of accumulated items such as paper, straw, cardboard, rags, or shredded plastic bags. They horde food which may or may not be eaten.

Potential hazards: They must chew continuously to keep their teeth sharp and can cause extensive gnawing damage. They can transmit disease and generate a distinctive unpleasant smell.

Control: Food and shelter sources must be removed. Access openings must be sealed. Poisons are effective but baiting must be carefully placed to ensure maximum safe results.

Prevention: Elimination of potential food and shelter sources and the sealing of access openings.