Roof Rat Identification & Prevention

Also known as the black rat, roof rats are one of the most problematic pests you can pick up around your property. Roof rats can grow between six and eight inches in length, and their tails will also grow between six and eight inches. This means that you may encounter roof rats with a total length of between 12 and 16 inches.

Roof rats have black fur, and they are known for their remarkable climbing skills. True to their name, roof rats love to live in high-up places such as attics, the space between walls, and above ceilings. Rodent control in Orange County, CA is necessary to defeat infestations of this pest, as they are quite prolific and reproduce rapidly.

Roof rats are one of the most dangerous pests to deal with due to the ability of these rodents to spread bacteria and pathogens throughout your property. Roof rats carry pathogens with them that can cause illnesses such as salmonellosis, tularemia, hantavirus, and leptospirosis, among many others, and they also transport parasitic pests like fleas, ticks, and mites to your property. As roof rats scavenge through food storage spaces, kitchens, and other areas of your property, rat droppings and urine are left behind, further creating hygienic and safety issues.

Additionally, infestations of roof rats can be quite destructive; rodents are characterized by their constantly growing front teeth, and they have a continual need to chew. As they invade your property, roof rats can chew through stored items, wood, brick, cinder block, and insulation, creating costly damage.

Roof rats are opportunistic and adaptable, and they are commonly attracted to properties that provide them with easy access to food, moisture, and nesting spots. Improper food and trash storage, leaks, and potential rodent entry points around your property encourage a roof rat problem to occur; removing these items is essential if you want to keep rats away from your home.

Roof rats are most often found infiltrating high places, such as attics, drop ceilings, the space between walls, and areas of storage or insulation. They prefer dark spaces and clutter, as it’s easier to hide, and they will commonly create their nests within close distance to food sources. Outside, roof rats prefer the cover of overgrown grasses and foliage, debris piles, or the areas around power lines and fences.

Instead of wondering how to get rid of rats once these pests invade your property, contact our team of experts at The PEST Group. We’ll conduct an inspection that helps us figure out where your major roof rat problem areas are occurring before taking steps to set down traps and eliminate potential roof rat entry points, protecting your property from these pests.

Contact us today to learn more about our residential or commercial pest control services in Orange County, CA, or to request a free inspection.

In addition to professional rat removal, follow these expert prevention tips to stop future roof rat problems:

• Seal cracks around your property’s foundation, windows, and doors to ensure rats are kept outside.

• Use outdoor trash cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent hungry rodents from scavenging.

• Make sure your roof is free of cracks or gaps that might let roof rats inside.

• Cut down long grasses outdoors and remove debris piles to reduce roof rat hiding spots.

• Always store leftover food properly and clean up food and drink spills immediately to stop the aroma from attracting roof rats.

Reach out to The PEST Group today if you have more questions or concerns about pest control services in Orange County, CA for roof rats.