What factor can indicate a recent rodent activity in an environment?

The presence of burrows and gnaw marks is a strong indicator of recent rodent activity in an environment. Rodents, such as mice and rats, often create burrows as nesting sites and pathways for movement. Additionally, gnaw marks on materials like wood, plastic, or food packaging can indicate that rodents have been actively feeding or seeking shelter in an area. These signs are crucial for pest control professionals to assess the level of infestation and determine appropriate control measures.

In contrast, well-maintained surfaces typically suggest that an area is regularly cleaned and less likely to attract rodents. The presence of food scraps, while a potential attractant, does not alone confirm active rodent activity without additional context or signs of infestation. Lastly, the absence of droppings can indicate that rodents may not be present; however, it is not as definitive as finding actual burrows or gnaw marks that directly point to active rodent presence.