Scientific Name: Rattus rattus
What is that sound? Have you ever heard rustling and squeaking at night? You might have even wandered around your home, armed with a baseball bat, looking for a burglar. The sad truth is that you may very well have an infestation of thieving Roof rats. They will wait for you to head to bed and will sneak into your kitchen for a bite to eat.
Description:
Roof rats are capable climbers. Because of this adaptation, they are more likely to be found in your attic than any other species of rat. Like all rats, roof rats are vectors for disease. They can carry fleas, tapeworms, and other parasites into your home. They also transmit a number of viruses and bacteria. It has been estimated that rats carry up to five million viruses on one foot. Disease is the biggest threat that comes from rats. If threatened, they will bite. Their bits can transmit plenty of diseases as well. You can contract E coli, Bartonella, Rickettsia, Salmonella, and Rat-bite fever.
Signs of an Infestation:
One of the best signs for a rat infestation is their grease trails. Rats use their urine and feces to communicate. You will begin to see their grease stains in areas where they enter your home or business. The most common shape of their grease trails will be a blob with a trail. Other signs include gnaw marks on food containers, drywall, cabinets, even your furniture. You might also see a lot of rat hair build up on their entry sites.
Treatments:
Since Roof rats are willing to ruin your home and your health, you need to take an active approach. The best thing you can do to eliminate Roof rats is to grab your phone and call Pointe Pest Control. Our technicians understand rats. We have all of the equipment necessary to eliminate rats. The first thing we do is eliminate the infestation. We also perform an exterior inspection of your home. Our technicians will identify any areas that rats are using to get into your home. If a tree is planted too close to your home, Roof rats can use the limbs to gain access to your roof. With Pointe Pest Control, you will be able to reclaim your home or business from any rat infestation.
Learn About Other Rodents:
Norway Rats, Vole, House Mouse