Roof rats have many different names. Some call them black rats, others call them house rats. Back when the fastest mode of transportation was sailing on a ship, people called them ship rats. Out of all of these names, it is hard to determine which fits them best. They do have black spots in their fur making black rat a good name. It’s also understandable why they would be called home or ship rats as these are two common places they are found. Between the 4, we think the name roof rat fits them best for the way they invade homes. We will talk about this a little bit more in just a second.
What Are Roof Rats?
Cousins to more common Norway rats, roof rats are brown rodents with black spots. Smaller than other species of rodents, these nimble creatures are often mistaken for mice. If you don’t know how to tell mice and rats apart, rats have smaller ears and much blunter noses. Their tails are also scaley and hairy where mouse tails are just hairy.
Probably the most important fact about roof rats is that they are extremely capable climbers. Just like squirrels, roof rats can easily climb trees and scale branches to access the roof of a home. This is where they will invade by either finding damage you can’t see to squeeze through, crawling down a chimney, or chewing an opening to let themselves in. Due to their small size, getting into your home is not very difficult for roof rats. This makes them a formidable and common household pest, especially as the weather cools down around this time of year.
How Destructive Are Roof Rats?
Equipped with razor-sharp and strong front incisor teeth, roof rats are as destructive as they come. These teeth allow them to chew through almost anything apart from certain kinds of metal. You have probably heard of rats chewing through walls but did you know that they can also chew through utility piping, electrical wiring, and into HVAC systems. This could lead to major water damage, broken AC, and even electrical fires in your home.
Are Rats In The Attic Dangerous?
If the destruction they cause wasn’t enough, roof rats can also be a danger to you, your family, and even your pets. To start, roof rats are dirty pests known for carrying diseases, pathogens, and parasites. One of the ways they spread these dangers through your home is with their fecal matter and urine. If these things found around your home, use protective gear when cleaning them up, as just coming in contact with rat excrement can get you or members of your family very sick.
Rodents are also known hosts for other pests such as fleas, ticks, and mites. When brought into homes, these pests can transfer onto your pets, causing a laundry list of problems, especially for indoor pets without flea and tick collars.
How Do You Get Rid Of Roof Rats?
When rodents invade, there are two things homeowners can do. If you catch them early before they have been able to reproduce, a few carefully placed traps baited with peanut butter may solve your problem. If the infestation consists of more than 3 rats, we recommend seeking professional help before the problem grows.
Here at Pro Active Pest Control, our job is to help people with their pest problems. If roof rats have invaded your Sacramento home, we have a quick and easy solution that is sure to work. Don’t risk your family's safety and the well being of your home. Give us a call today and find the solution you and your home deserve.