Calcasieu Parish has three common commensal rodents. The word commensal means to live off man without giving anything in return. 
They thrive in a variety of habitats in our subtropical zone.
House Mouse
5-7 inches long with large eyes and ears. They metabolize water from their food, therefore they don't need a water source.
Norway Rat
Predominantly a burrowing rodent, is the most common rat. Stocky body, tail shorter than body and blunt nose. Capable of causing extensive damage to food, animal feed and property.
Roof Rat
nest above ground in dense vegetation; indoors - in attics, between floors and ceilings. Slender body, tail longer than body and pointed nose.
