Note: some rodents carry hantavirus, a potentially deadly infection that is transmitted when humans breathe in dust contaminated with the body fluids of infected rodents. If you will be cleaning up after a rodent infestation, read this important information first.
Rodent Infestations
The District does NOT conduct rodent control on private property, but can assist homeowners and tenants with identifying and solving rodent infestations. We can:
Inspect homes and businesses for evidence of rodent infestation
Provide an impartial written report on evidence of rodent infestation and any needed actions
Provide education and advice on controlling and excluding commensal rodents
Provide presentations and training for groups and organizations
For rodent trapping or baiting, contact a qualified pest control operator.
Municipal Rodent Control
In some cities, the District may conduct rodent control in public areas and creeks. Please contact the District office for more information by calling (650) 344-8592 or emailing info@smcmvcd.org.
Rodent-borne Disease Surveillance
The District conducts rodent surveillance for hantavirus and other rodent-borne diseases on a yearly basis. Laboratory staff set humane live traps in local parks in order to collect rodents for testing. The rodents caught are anesthetized then measured and checked for parasites. Laboratory staff draw blood from each rodent for a hantavirus antibody test. After recovering from anesthesia, each rodent is carefully released at the exact location where it was trapped in order to minimize environmental impacts.
