Rodents belong to the order Rodentia and represent the largest category of mammals in the world today. Among the most common rodents include mice, rats, squirrels, beavers, and many others. One common characteristic that exists among rodents is having front teeth (incisors) that grow continually and motivate these creatures to constantly gnaw on various materials.
The most common species found in this region are Norway rats, roof rats, deer mice, and house mice. Although these creatures ordinarily live in natural outdoor environments, they will infiltrate homes in search of food, water, and shelter. The two most problematic types of rats in this region include Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), which experts also refer to as sewer rats, and roof rats (R. Rattus) or black rats.
Have you heard or seen indications suggesting that rats have entered your property? Contacting a local pest control professional regarding a property inspection is critical. A licensed Riverside County pest control company knows how to get rid of rats fast and how to prevent rats from entering yard areas and potentially infiltrating the property.
How To Tell If It's Rats On Your Property
The body of a roof rat is long and slender and measures roughly six to eight inches, with a tail that usually exceeds seven inches. They have fur that generally is a mix of dark brown and black, a pointed nose, and a scaly tail. Roof rats are exceptionally agile scavengers that often reside above ground in trees or shrubs. Their excellent climbing skills allow roof rats to access homes from the upper areas of the structure.
Norway rats typically have a body length of seven to nine inches and a tail shorter than their body. Norway rats have rather small eyes and ears, brown fur, and a white or grey underbelly. Unlike the agile roof rat, this species remains near the ground and might burrow through areas near a home’s foundation. Norway rats will use various materials to construct nests, such as paper or fabric, and generate “capsule-like” droppings.
The Damage And Dangers Rats Can Create
Rats might chew through pipes and wiring and damage drywall and insulation. Rats will frequently travel through trash and will likely encounter harmful parasites.
What diseases do rats carry? Rats are known carriers of leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, tularemia, and more.
Do rats attack humans? Rats usually flee when encountering humans; however, they will likely fight for survival if cornered.
Five Simple Ways To Prevent Future Rat Infestations
Property owners seeking to prevent rats should gain an understanding of what attracts rats to yards and homes. Five of the best practices include:
Regularly clean the kitchen, such as sweeping up crumbs and wiping down surfaces.
Trash bags placed indoors or outside that contain food scraps must remain in durable garbage receptacles with lids.
Promptly place leftovers in the refrigerator or sealed containers and avoid leaving dirty dishes out overnight.
Trim tree branches, tall shrubs, or other vegetation away from the home to limit access by roof rats.
Fill, seal, or cover any small points of entry along the property’s exterior.
These preventative measures are crucial because rats breed rapidly, and minor problems may quickly become full-blown infestations.
The Most Effective Way To Get Rid Of Rats On Your Property
Homeowners in Riverside County can rely on a team of experts with Power Pros Pest Control for reliable solutions to rodent problems. We will deploy a specialist to the premises to perform a detailed inspection inside and outside the structure. Our inspector checks all hard-to-reach places where rats might hide or create a nest.
In many cases, our expert will identify some existing property conditions that make the premises vulnerable to intrusions from rats and other rodents. In addition to rodents, we assist those struggling with ants, cockroaches, bed bugs, and many other troubling invaders. We also remain committed to using green and eco-friendly solutions whenever possible. For an onsite consultation, contact our office today.