Rats are one of the peskiest and most destructive rodents around North America. They spread diseases to humans and pets, create property damage, and contaminate food. For rat pest control in Lincoln, give us a call. At Pro Active Pest Control, we specialize in rodent and rat control, bed bug control, pest control, and even more! We will tend to your rat problem whether the infestation is on a residential or commercial property, and we will work hard to ensure that all rats have been eliminated by the time we’re through. Read on to find out more about the signs and dangers of rats.
How To Identify A Rat Infestation In Your House
There are two main kinds of rats found in the area: Norway rats and roof rats. Norway rats, also known as “sewer rats” or “brown rats,” are larger than roof rats. These rats usually prefer lower elevations, and try to build their nests with materials such as paper or cloth. Roof rats, also known as “black rats,” have long tails and prefer to nest above ground.
To identify a rat infestation in your house, you’ll need to know the different common signs of rats, which include:
- Rat droppings
- Noises in the attic, basement, or garage
- Rat nests among stacks of firewood, in drawers, or behind boxes
- Smudge marks against walls, pipes, or beams
- Your dog or cat bringing you a dead rat
Rats are most often active at night, so you’re more likely to spot one after hours than during the daytime. Despite their poor eyesight, they can memorize paths and obstacles in your home. Rats can squeeze beneath any door that has as little as a 1/2-inch gap. If the door is made of wood, rats may gnaw on the wood.
Norway rats tend to prefer foods like cereal grains, meats, fish, nuts, and some fruits. Similarly, roof rats enjoy those same types of food, but their preferences differ. Roof rats prefer to eat fruits, nuts, berries, slugs, and snails. If you have fruit trees, a vegetable garden, or any of these foods in your home, it’s important to take the appropriate measures to store food away and out of the reach of rats.
The Dangerous Diseases Rats Are Known To Spread
In addition to being unsanitary, rats are known to carry and spread diseases to humans, pets, and livestock. These diseases include:
- Murine typhus
- Leptospirosis
- Salmonellosis (food poisoning)
- Rat-bite fever
- Plague
Rats often spread diseases by contaminating food or by leaving droppings and urine behind.
The Safe And Effective Way To Get Rid Of Rats In Your House
For the safest and most effective way to get rid of rats, contact our expert pest control team. Do not attempt to fight a rat infestation on your own. Our inspection methods and treatment options will be personalized just for you, and we’ll deal with all of the hassles so that you don’t have to. If rats are getting you down, don’t fret. Contact Pro Active Pest Control for more information on how we can help your Lincoln home get back to normal.
Five Natural Ways To Keep Rats From Returning
After your home is finally rid of rats, you may want to keep some rat prevention tips in mind to avoid a future infestation from occurring. Here are five natural ways to keep rats from returning:
- Seal as many holes as possible, including crawl spaces.
- Invest in natural rat deterrents, such as peppermint oil and tabasco.
- Regularly clean your home.
- Safely store away all food that rats are usually attracted to, especially cereal and grains.
- Trim any trees that can serve as a bridge for rats to gain easy access to your home.
If your home suffers from another rat infestation even after implementing these tips, don’t hesitate to give us a call! Our Pro Active Pest Control team is always ready and happy to help a Lincoln resident in need.