Brown Norway & Black Roof Rats

Rats are various medium-sized, long-tailed rodents. They are typically distinguished from mice by their size. The best known rat species are the black rat and the brown rat. Rats are commonly found living around people. They can be very destructive to homes as they often make their nests in and around people’s homes and office buildings. It’s not uncommon for a home to have had a rat infestation for many weeks or months before anyone inside notices. Once inside, rats will remain in place and multiply with adequate food, water and shelter.

Fun & Interesting Facts about Rats

There are more than 60 species of rats. They are typically 5 inches or longer. Most are nocturnal and they live to forage and mate. Male rats are called bucks, unmated females are called dams and infants are called kittens or pups. A group of rats is referred to as a mischief. They are opportunistic survivors and often live with and near humans. They may cause substantial food losses, especially in developing countries. The average lifespan depends on the species discussed, but, mostly they live about a year.

Signs of a Rodent Infestation

Signs that you may have a rat problem would be if you see their droppings. Rat feces and urine may contaminate surfaces with which we come into contact with. The droppings will tell you the path they are traveling. Runways are worn areas created during travel. Look for gnawing or burrow openings. The opening of a burrow is about the size of a tennis ball. Rat holes are both unsightly and dangerous as they are an entryway for other pests as well. Rats are also a short-circuit fire danger if they gnaw on electrical wires. Rats are able to swim up sewer pipes and into toilets. Places to look for rat infestations are around pipes, behind walls, and near garbage cans.

Rat Prevention & Control

Rats can harbor and transmit a number of serious diseases. They can also introduce disease-carrying parasites such as fleas and ticks into your home. Keep food sources in sealed containers. Remove cardboard items, as they are very attractive to rats because they like to chew them up and use it for their nests. Rats prefer dark, shaded areas and they avoid sunlight so trim/cut low lying bushes and shrubs and keep your grass short and tidy. Remove junk piles and keep wood piles up off the ground. Prevent rats from coming into your home by sealing all openings with concrete or metal. Cleanliness is extremely important in controlling rats. Removing food, water, and shelter along with pest control (trapping and baiting) is the best way to eliminate an infestation. Rats are instinctively wary of new things, including rat control measures such as traps and baits. They like to colonize in attics, burrows, under concrete and porches, in wall voids and other hard-to–reach places. Deterrents may prevent a rat infestation but eradication requires treatment. Different rats are better with different eradication methods.

Rat Pest Control Services in Northern Virginia, Stafford, Warrenton, Manassas, Culpeper, Chantilly, Leesburg VA and Gaithersburg Maryland

Rats reproduce rapidly, and small populations become full-blown infestations in very little time. Rodent control is best if started prior to infestation. To provide your home, garden, and health from infestations, you’ll need professional, customized solutions. Call Eagle Pest Services if you’re having any issues with rats.