The Norway rat, or Rattus Norvegicus, is the most common rat species in home infestations. It is grown or grayish in coloration, and it can get quite large. In this article, we’re going to cover some of the essential information that you need to know about this rodent.
Preventing Norway rat infestations
Garbage cans, food, pet food, and bird seed are big incentives for rats. This is why you want to make sure that all these food sources are kept in sealed containers. For garbage cans, it could mean having lidded trash containers, and for normal food and pet food, it could mean using sealed plastic containers. You also want to block all possible rat entry points into the home. This can mean sealing any gaps or cracks in the external walls, particularly near doors, windows and chimneys.
How serious is a Norway rat infestation?
Norway rat infestations can be very serious. Rats can carry as many as 35 different dangerous diseases, including the plague, and these diseases can be spread either directly, through contact, feces, urine, and food contamination, or indirectly, through the parasites carried by the rats. On top of that, rats can cause damage to various areas and elements of the home. These rodents are particularly destructive to insulation and electrical wiring, which in some circumstances can lead to power outages and fire hazards.
Signs to keep an eye out for
The most common sign of a rat infestation is the presence of droppings. Rat droppings have the shape of a capsule that is slightly shorter than an inch in length. You will find these droppings in areas that have high levels of rat activity. You might also notice gnaw marks around the home, grease stains on the walls or floors, or you could hear the rats at night squeaking, scratching and gnawing inside the walls.
Getting rid of Norway rats
When a Norway rat infestation has taken root in your home, you have to remove it as fast as possible, for the reasons mentioned above. We can help you with this. One of our team members will come over, perform an inspection, recommend a few treatment options, and then proceed to remove the infestation as quickly, cleanly and effectively as possible. If you would like to know more information about our services, our pricing, and our approach, or if you want to set up a pest control appointment, contact us today.