As the temperatures drop, rats–especially roof rats–start looking for warmth and shelter. Eastern NC and Tidewater VA areas are prime targets for roof rats especially because of the tall trees, older homes with attics, and easy access points. Understanding the habits and signs of roof rats is crucial to protecting your property.
Common Rats
Roof Rats (Rattus rattus)
- Appearance: Sleek bodies, large ears, and tails longer than their bodies.
- Habitat: Prefer high places like attics, rafters, and trees. These agile climbers often gain access to homes via roofs or nearby trees.
- Behavior: Nocturnal and known for causing damage to electrical wiring, insulation, and stored food.
Norway Rats (Rattus norvegicus)
- Appearance: Larger, stockier than roof rats, with shorter tails and smaller ears.
- Habitat: Tend to burrow under structures, in basements, or around foundations. Unlike roof rats, they prefer lower areas.
- Behavior: They are excellent diggers and can cause structural damage with their burrowing habits.
Got Rats?
Without proper prevention, rats can quickly make themselves at home, bringing diseases and property damage with them. So, how can you tell if you have a rats?
Signs You Have Rats
- Noises in the Attic: Scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night.
- Droppings: Small, pellet-like droppings in attics, near food sources, or along beams.
- Gnaw Marks: Damage to wood, wires, or food packaging.
- Grease Marks: Dark smudges along walls or beams from oily fur rubbing against surfaces.
Prevention
- Seal Entry Points: Check for gaps around doors, windows, and eaves. Repair any damage to rooflines and seal holes where utility lines enter the home.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Roof rats use overhanging tree branches as bridges to access roofs. Keep trees trimmed at least three feet from the roofline.
- Secure Food Sources: Store food in sealed containers, clean up crumbs, and regularly take out the trash. Roof rats are always on the lookout for easy meals.
- Declutter: Clear out attics, basements, and sheds where rats might find shelter. The less cluttered, the fewer hiding places.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Keep outdoor areas tidy by removing piles of debris, firewood, and overgrown vegetation, which can serve as hiding spots.
Terminix Rat Control
If you’ve spotted signs of roof rats or want to take preventive measures, the rat control experts at Terminix can help. Terminix provides thorough inspections, exclusion services, and customized treatment plans to ensure your home stays rodent-free this fall and winter.