Woodrats AKA Pack Rats

Virginia is home to several species of rats and other home invading rodents. One common rat species that is found chewing its way into homes and business buildings is the Woodrat or also known as a pack rat due to its tendency to collect things. They hoard items they find that are not even necessary for survival. This species of rat will steal jewelry, kitchenware, and even caps off of cans. Sometimes they will leave one item in place of another, such as trading a pinecone for a lid. The habits and behavior of this rat makes them not only destructive but also an annoyance, especially if they decide to take the car keys. Eagle Pest Services will explain how you can identify and control woodrats around your home.

Woodrat Identification Facts

Woodrats average length is anywhere from 15 to 18 inches. They have a fine and rather soft fur coat. Their colors range from a light brown to gray with a white under belly and feet. Their tails are covered in hair and they have a large set of ears and eyes. Like most rodents, they will feed on just about anything. They can cause a great deal of damage to homes and other human structures as they climb and crawl around your home in search of food and water.

Woodrat Damage to Homes & Buildings

Woodrats will look for gaps they can enter through. They will even climb up the outside of the walls to climb through your attic ventilation and get inside your attic. Once inside a building they will chew and gnaw through wires, drywall, and wood as they travel throughout the building. The problem isn’t just the property damage they can cause or just the fact they like running off with shiny objects. One of the big problems is that they will leave urine and feces behind that can hold harmful diseases. Woodrats just don’t carry disease either; they also carry fleas and ticks, round worm, botflies that can spread illness and disease.

How to Prevent Woodrats

Controlling Woodrats or rodents in general means to first prevent them from invading your home or commercial building. Start by inspecting the outside structure of the building for weaknesses. Window screen should be in working order. Doors shouldn’t have any gaps, and chimneys and vents should be covered with fine metal mesh screens. Repair any damages that could become an entry point for rats. It also helps to remove any debris or clutter and especially fire wood piles, well away from the home. Trash cans need to be sealed so you’re not feeding or aiding in a Woodrat population.

Woodrat Rodent Control

However, when it comes to controlling Woodrats and other rodents, you may just find that you need the aid of a professional pest control company. Eagle Pest Services can provide a pest management plan to help you with any rat, rodent or pest problem. If your home or business is being invaded by any type of pest, contact Eagle Pest Services today.