Rats are a common rodent problem for many homes and business throughout the world, and the Greater Austin, Texas area is not immune to their insidious ways. Rats are notorious for the diseases and ailments they spread and the destruction they reign down on property structures, possessions, and food supplies. Where rats are more than a nuisance, having them infest your home or business is something no one wants. With the many different rats found around the world, there are only a common few locally and we at A-Tex Pest Management would like to take the opportunity to single roof rats.
Roof Rat Identification
Roof rats have distinctly pointed muzzles and large eyes as well as large ears that scarcely have fur. The fur on their bodies is soft and smooth and colored a variety of colors that include blends of black, brown, as well as several variations of gray, whites, and black. Their tails are 6 to 8 inches in length that add on to the 6 to 8 inches in length of their bodies. They weigh in at about 5 – 12 ounces.
Where Do Roof Rats Live During the Day?
With their remarkable agility to overcome obstacles in conjunction with their incredible abilities to climb and balance along slender power lines and rooftops, roof rats are rightfully named. They are more than likely to get into homes and commercial buildings through damaged holes on rooftops. Once inside they are fond of the higher areas such as attic spaces, areas just above ceilings, the tops of cabinets, as well as behind walls. As roof rats are very adaptable, they are just as prosperous living outside as they do inside. Outside they prefer living above ground in dense vegetation that provides protection and concealment.
How to Prevent Roof Rats
To significantly reduce the odds of getting roof rats imposing in your home, apply the following tips:
1) Store food properly. To keep pests out of the food storage; all pet food and human food should be properly stored in secure containers. Rats can easily gnaw through cardboard, paper, and flimsy plastic packaging.
2) Seal trash bins. Not only do want to place trash bins in isolated locations complete with pest-proof tops, but you will want to make sure they are cleaned every few months with hot soapy water.
3) Home sealing and repairs. Leaky faucets, hoses, and pipes need quick repairs to rapidly remove a water source from roof rats. Repairs and replace any missing, damaged, or loose roof shingles and ensure your chimney has a tight-fitting cap as well as any other fissures found after checking the roof. Install mesh coverings on the ventilation and install weather stripping and use caulk in the applicable areas to repair the structure.
4) Landscaping maintenance. Landscaping should be well-manicured; ensure the trees, bushes, and other vegetation is pruned and trimmed away from the house.
Rodent Inspections, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
Roof rats are more concentrated in the southern states, especially around seaports but are found all over the United States as they prefer warmer temperatures. Roof rats typically only invade homes and businesses in the event food and water become scarce or when the weather becomes extreme. With their high reproduction rate and the amount of damage and health risks they impose, their presence is something that needs to be rectified. Rats are elusive and intelligent enough to escape basic pest control. With professional assistance, you can ensure they are evicted efficiently. If you are having problems with roof rats are suspect their presence, call in the experts of A-Tex Pest Management today and let us take care of all your pest problems.