If you have roof rat problems, you are not alone. Also known as Rattus rattus, this pest species is spread throughout the US, being more prevalent in warmer climates, especially in the southern half of the East Coast along the Southern states and the Pacific Northwest. But what draws roof rats into our homes? Let’s find out.
The common reasons for roof rat infestations
There are a few different reasons why a roof rat infestation has taken root in your home, but there are three primary factors that will determine the likelihood of this occurring: the availability of entry points, food and shelter.
Roof rats will enter a home if they find an entry point that is readily available. This rodent species is a very good climber, and will be able to exploit any gap in your roof or walls in order to gain entry into the building. Once they are inside, they will start nesting, particularly in the attic or crawl spaces of the home, and make pathways through the walls. These pathways will be used to reach reliable food sources, which will be pretty much anything that is not stored in a container. Once the rat has gained entry, managed to create a shelter for itself, and found food, it is there to stay.
Preventing an infestation
Knowing the causes for an infestation can help you understand the ways in which you can prevent it. To start, you want to make sure that there are no holes or cracks in the exterior of the home, especially around areas where piping enters the walls. You also want to make sure that you keep your attic clean, and that any food in the home is properly stored. These measures, when properly implemented, will protect you from most pest infestations, not just roof rats.
What to do if an infestation has occurred
If roof rats are already in your home, you have several options at your disposal. For small infestations, you can find products on the market that will help you eliminate the rats yourself. However, as an infestation grows, roof rats become better at avoiding traps and baits, and you will need professional help in order to remove them from the home. We can help you with that. Contact us today if you have a stubborn roof rat infestation that can only be removed through professional means.
