Commercial and Residential Pest Control Services | Dodson Bros. Exterminating Co., Inc.
When you think of pest control, you may often think of visible infestations like bugs or small pests. However, one of the biggest threats to your home may be happening literally right over your head—a roof rat infestation.
Today we’ll discuss what roof rats are, what they’re attracted to, and how to prevent them. We’ll also give you tips on what to do if you think you’re experiencing a roof rat infestation.
Roof rats, also known as black rats or ship rats, are a species of rodent that is commonly found in many parts of the United States. They’re especially popular in coastal states because they tend to camp out in shipments that are unloaded at ports. Their name comes from their excellent climbing ability, which gives them the opportunity to reside in the upper parts of your home’s structure. Their agility allows them to reside in attics, roof spaces, and wall voids.
These long and thin rodents are typically 6-8 inches long and dark brown to black. Their tails are often notably longer than their heads and bodies and can reach lengths up to 10 inches. Like other rat species, roof rats can carry dangerous diseases and even cause structural damage to your home.
Often, roof rats are confused with Norway rats, a more populous rat species in the States. Here are a few key differences between roof rats and Norway rats:
It’s important to recognize the signs of roof rat activity early to prevent an extensive infestation. Luckily, there are a few telltale signs that you probably have an infestation.
Rodents are known to pose significant health risks by contaminating food and spreading disease, including hantavirus and rat bite fever, so if you think you have a roof rat problem, it’s important to take action quickly. There are a few DIY options to get rid of roof rats, including traps and poisoned bait. However, there are downsides to trying to treat the problem yourself.
Waiting for a DIY solution to work can lead to more rodent issues since rodents reproduce rapidly. Often, over-the-counter traps and baits are also not the safest option for you, your family, or your pets. The safest and most effective way to eradicate a roof rat problem is to contact a professional pest control company.
Roof rats are attracted to a variety of things that lead them inside your home, including food, shelter, and a place to reproduce. Just like any other pest, rodents are attracted to food scraps, including pet food. They’ll gnaw through just about anything to gain access to a food supply including metal, plastic, and electrical wiring. In the colder months, roof rats tend to enter homes in search of shelter from the outdoor elements. They also tend to enter homes in search of a safe place to reproduce. They’re especially attracted to cluttered spaces, including attics and closets.
While roof rats will infest your home at any point during the year, they’re especially likely to look for shelter during the colder months. They’re even known to infest vehicle engines because of their warmth.
Roof rats can be a nuisance in your home, but luckily, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a full-blown infestation. Here are a few preventative measures you can take to avoid a rodent infestation.
Seal entry points: Roof rats often enter structures through cracks and gaps around the foundation, so make sure to check your property regularly. If you find any potential entry points, seal them with caulk or other suitable materials as soon as possible. Even though roof rats prefer nesting on higher ground, basements, garages, and crawl spaces are among the most common places that roof rats enter, so pay special attention to these areas.
Store food properly: Roof rats are attracted to food, so storing food products (including pet food) in sealed, airtight containers can discourage rats from visiting. Keep food refrigerated or stored on the highest pantry shelves possible. It’s also crucial to keep all food preparation surfaces clean, so be sure to wipe down your dining table and kitchen countertops after cooking or eating.
Reduce clutter: Roof rats will eat any food crumbs and waste that they can find, so doing routine cleanups of floors, countertops, and tables around your home is a great first step to keeping these pests away. Roof rats will also use discarded paper and cardboard for their nests, so keep recycling and trash as tucked away as possible.
It’s best to leave rodent control to pest control professionals. If you have a roof rat problem, Dodson Pest Control has the skills and equipment to help you get rid of them. We have over 80 years of experience helping people get rid of their unwanted pests, including roof rats and other rat species, and we can help you do the same.
