Roof rats are notorious pests in Texas that invade homes, sheds and other human structures. Roof rats are great climbers and are often found climbing onto rooftops chewing holes in the roof to enter the attic. Once in the attic, it is only a short time until they spread throughout the entire home. Roof rats harbor diseases and cause major damages to the home. A-Tex Pest Management will share more about roof rats and how you can prevent them.
Roof Rat Identification
Roof rats are common rodents found in many parts of America and the world. They are one of the smaller rat species only reaching 18 inches in length including their tail. Most roof rats are black or dark brown in color and have a slender build. Roof rats also have a smoother fur coat, pointed shaped face, and large ears and eyes. Roof rats also have a long tail which enhances their balance. Roof rats are amazing climbers and prefer to build their nest off of the ground. Roof rats will nest in dense vegetation, tree or in woodpiles. Root rats will also invade human structures and homes especially during the colder seasons seeking warmth. Roof rats will often first invade homes through the attic, chewing their way through. Roof rats will spread throughout the home and are often found nesting in the ceilings, inside the wall, cabinets, or in the laundry room. Roof rats will also nest inside garages, underneath deck or patios, or in sheds.
Roof Rat Diet
Roof rats are omnivores meaning they will eat both meat and vegetation. Humans frequently incidentally feed roof rats which is the first step to a major rodent infestation. When people leave food or water for their pets out, or like to have a fruit or snack bowl in their kitchen they are feed pests. For homeowners who leave bird feeders out for wild birds or love to garden, roof rats will often come to these sites for food and water. Another common problem is garbage, rats will chew their way through plastic liners to get to the discarded food. With a stable food and water source, roof rats will begin nesting near these sites and eventually inside the home.
How to Stop Rats from Getting Under Roof Tiles
Controlling roof rats are essential as they not only cause major damages to the home but harbor disease and contaminate the food inside the home. To prevent roof rats from invading your home, it is recommended to keep the landscape maintained. Roof rats will climb trees to get to the roof, keep hanging tree branches trimmed and cut back away from the home. Keep firewood away from the home and woodpile or yard debris cleaned. The next, step to preventing roof rats is to remove all food and water sources. Never leave pet food or water bowls outside if possible, and make sure garbage is a seal and contain in a metal trash can with a tight lid.
Rodent Inspections, Control, Removal & More in Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville, Cedar Park & Austin Texas
Roof rats can become more aggressive during the winter and all exterior prevention steps can fail. If roof rats are detected you will want to begin setting up traps and baits. There are a few ways to control roof rats, one traps such as cage traps, snap or glue (sticky) traps can be placed to begin reducing the population. Other deterrents can also be used. Ultrasonic Devices have had some success when repelling roof rats and other rodents. If you have roof rats or other pests invading your home and need help contact A-Tex Pest Management today.