Did you know there are different kinds of rats in Queen Creek? While you might be more familiar with the Norway rat, also known as the brown rat, one other species invades homes. The roof rat, or black rat, isn't quite as common, but it can destroy property and pose health risks just like the Norway rat.
Roof rats are a significant pest problem that you shouldn't take lightly. In this guide, you'll get rat control and prevention tips from the Pro Active Pest Control experts.
Identifying Roof Rats
Roof rats are the smaller of the two rat species and reach around 12-16 inches long, including their tails. They have slightly thinner bodies than the Norway rat and scalier tails. These rats are black or dark brown. Sometimes, they are mistaken for mice, but mice have pointier faces and more prominent ears in proportion to their bodies than rats do.
Another main difference between Norway rats and roof rats is their abilities. The Norway rat is a great swimmer, while roof rats are skilled at climbing. Both of these rat species are just as likely to spread pathogens and damage property, so you'll want to avoid them both.
Roof Rats Could Destroy Wiring In Your House
Rodents in Queen Creek all have large incisors that grow constantly. They need to gnaw on materials to keep their teeth from growing too large. Roof rats can damage plaster, drywall, plastic, clothing, furniture, pipes, wires, and more despite their small size. Roof rats are especially prone to damaging wiring as they can climb to your house's upper levels and attics. Repairs can be costly if they destroy the wiring or plumbing inside the house.
The other significant concern of roof rats is the health risks they pose. These rats can spread diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus, and they often carry parasites like ticks and fleas on their bodies. Rats can also trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Ways To Deter Roof Rats In Queen Creek
Due to the destructive nature of black rats, it's easier and less stressful to focus on prevention than removal. We suggest following these rat prevention tips to keep them away from your property:
- Keep humidity issues to a minimum by fixing leaky plumbing and removing standing water.
- Clean your kitchen regularly by doing dirty dishes, mopping floors, and wiping up spills.
- Place tight-fitting lids on garbage cans.
- Keep the yard clear of leaf litter, mulch, and grass clippings.
- Declutter your home and the garage to eliminate hiding places.
- Repair holes in the walls and foundation with steel wool, wire mesh, or metal plating. Remember that rats can chew through many materials and slip through holes the size of a dime.
- Replace damaged screens in doors and windows.
- Obtain Queen Creek pest control services.
While you can remove factors that attract rats, the simplest way to keep them out year-round is with help from professionals. Rats are adaptable and intelligent creatures, so it's easiest to let the experts handle their removal.
Getting Rid Of Roof Rats For Good
Do you want rodent control you can count on? Are you dealing with a roof rat infestation? The best way to prevent and eradicate rodents is with pest control from our expert technicians at Pro Active Pest Control.
Call us today to learn about rodent exclusion options and our eco-friendly and affordable service plans.