Rats are nocturnal creatures that search for food at night. They chew and nibble on all kinds of materials in your home, damaging electrical wires, doors and window frames as well as burrowing into foundations of buildings, tearing up insulation in walls and ceilings to create nests for their young.
Rattus rattus, commonly known as the roof rat in America, is the most widespread species. These stocky rodents can burrow into structures like under foundations or into woodpiles; they’re even capable of swimming and climbing to access water pipes and sewers.
According to the National Pesticide Information Center, pests often gain entry into homes through holes or cracks larger than a quarter. They may also climb tree branches or onto the soffits or vents of roofs for additional access.
Signs of Rat or Mouse Droppings
Rats often leave behind a trail of urine and feces when they enter a home, which can contaminate surfaces like floors, walls and ceilings as well as spread diseases.
If you spot rat droppings in your attic or basement, contact a pest control expert immediately to inspect and take necessary steps for cleaning up the mess. It is essential that this be done promptly as rats can quickly multiply and cause extensive damage in your home.
Rodents carry more than 35 diseases, some of which are dangerous to humans. These include hantavirus, salmonella and leptospirosis; additionally they carry bubonic plague – a devastating illness which decimated populations throughout Europe during the Middle Ages.
To prevent a rat infestation in your yard, keep garbage and compost bins sealed tightly with tight-fitting lids. Also, clear away vegetation and debris that could provide shelter to rats as they search for food sources.
Rats can wreak havoc on your home or car by chewing through wood, drywall and electrical wiring if left unchecked. To keep them out, plugging up holes and cracks is key. Try using peppermint, steel wool or spray foam as barriers against their access points.
Another indication of rats in your attic is the squeaking and scratching noises they make when nibbling on materials in the ceiling or walls. These sounds can be heard throughout the night, especially when there is silence in the house.
These animals are notorious for their capacity to pollute water sources, so if you have a pond or stream near your home, make sure it’s filled with plenty of freshwater. Additionally, if you notice signs of an infestation like droppings, a musty smell in your attic or basement, and/or gnaw marks on materials, contact a pest control specialist immediately for assistance.
If you need Rat pest control in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe or the surrounding areas contact Atomic Pest Control for help.
