Roof Rats




ROOF RAT CONTROL NEWTOWN, PA



Roof rats, with their long tails and dark fur, can look especially threatening. Moreover, they are known carriers of serious diseases and capable of causing significant structural damage. Efficient roof rat control is essential when an infestation is discovered.

WHAT DO ROOF RATS LOOK LIKE?



The roof rat is among the larger rodents found in Newtown and throughout Pennsylvania. Adults may measure 13 to 18 inches from snout to tail, with the tail being longer than the body. They are slender, and their overall weight is just five to nine ounces. Smooth, dark brown or black fur further helps to identify them. Their eyes are large as are their hairless ears. Frequently, a roof rat is identified by its droppings, which are cylindrical and long.

WHAT DO ROOF RATS EAT?



The roof rat gets its alternative names "citrus rat" and "fruit rat" from its well-known love of fruit. They also consume nuts. However, this species is omnivorous, which means that they are rugged and adaptable. When meat or grains are available, they will eat them. Dog and cat food, as well as feed for farm animals, also may be on the menu. In addition to the Insects and lizards that may be consumed when outdoors,  roof rats are to eat paper and candle wax when they cannot find other edible items.

Roof rats are determined when it comes to seeking water sources. Bird baths, puddles or streams will satisfy them, but they are drawn to leaky pipes, water bowls left out for pets and the condensation drip line for air conditioners.

WHERE DO ROOF RATS LIVE?



While most rat species prefer to build nests underground or close to the ground, the roof rat prefers a higher perch. This is because they have excellent climbing abilities. In the wild, roof rats build nests in trees, tall shrubs and anywhere that there is thick vegetation to provide sufficient coverage. Wood piles may appear to be attractive places to nest as well.

But roof rats also frequently make their way into homes and commercial buildings. When they do, they are likely to nest somewhere in the attic or in wall voids. Some will be just above the ceiling or will find a warm spot in a cabinet. Laundry rooms, because of their water and heat, also are likely places to find a nest. Roof rats may prefer to nest outdoors in a patio or pool area.

DAMAGE CAUSED BY ROOF RATS



Extensive damage to plastic and metal pipes is possible when a roof rat infestation is underway. These rodents are determined chewers, and they are aggressive when it comes to securing access to water. This damage can be incredibly inconvenient and expensive to repair.

This species also tears up insulation when it builds nests in attics and wall voids. Their nesting behavior similarly may lead them to chew on electrical wires, causing further headaches for property owners. Food in pantries and cupboards is vulnerable to being contaminated as the roof rat seeks out edible items. Rodents like the roof rat are frequently infested with a variety of mites and ticks, which may introduce further problems into the structure.

ARE ROOF RATS AGGRESSIVE?



Roof rats are almost wholly nocturnal. During the day, they will stay in or close to their nest. If a roof rat is seen out and about in daylight hours, it typically means that the local population of roof rats is large and competition for resources is fierce. Given the roof rat's nocturnal habits, confrontations between them and humans are rare. If cornered and feeling threatened, it is possible that the roof rat could show aggression to a person or other animal. Avoidance is advisable when a roof rat is spotted.

DO ROOF RATS CARRY DISEASE?



Like other members of the species, roof rats are capable of spreading numerous diseases. Some are spread when the roof rat contaminates human or pet food with feces or urine. Rarely, illnesses are transmitted through a bite. When an infected rat is bitten by a flea or mosquito, a disease can be indirectly transmitted to a person when the insect bites them.

Rat-bite fever is one of the more common illnesses that is transmitted to humans. The symptoms may not occur until days or weeks after the incident. Rash, fever, headache, vomiting and soreness in the joints and muscles are the typical symptoms of rat-bite fever.

Though plague outbreaks are far less common today than they were in earlier centuries, they do still occur. Infected rats and fleas usually are behind such an outbreak. Rats further may be responsible for cases of food poisoning when humans eat food that has been contaminated by urine, feces or saliva.

HOW TO DETECT ROOF RATS



The following signs may indicate a roof rat infestation:

• Sounds of gnawing, squeaking or shuffling behind walls and above ceilings
• Cylindrical rat droppings on floors and countertops
• Visual sightings of live or dead rats
• Grease marks deposited on walls and baseboards by rat fur

HOW TO PREVENT ROOF RATS



Steps to help ensure against a roof rat infestation include:

• Keep dense brush and vegetation well away from structures
• Do not allow branches to touch buildings
• Place wood piles several feet from all structures
• Seal all holes and cracks with caulk
• Put screens on vents
• Add caps to chimneys

HOW TO TREAT FOR RODENTS


Successful rodent control typically involves a series of steps, including trapping, poison baits, along with proper species identification.

Those who suspect a rodent problem should contact Newtown Termite & Pest Control.  Our experienced pest control professionals know how to inspect a structure to determine the type and scope of the infestation involved. They will then execute the appropriate plan of action to resolve the specific rodent issue plaguing your home or business while identifying entry points to help protect against future problems.

Schedule a FREE inspection today.

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