Norway rats are the most common rat species in home infestation in the US. They are also known as brown rats, which is reflective of their appearance – they have brown fur with a gray/white underbelly. They are also quite large, often reaching 20 inches in length when you include the tail. Both their tail and ears are hairless and covered in scales.
Where do Norway rats nest?
Norway rats may be found living underground in burrows close to water sources. You can find their burrows along foundations, under piles of garbage or woodpiles, around river banks, and in fields. In the home, Norway rats will nest in basements, behind walls or in crawl spaces.
What threats do Norway rats pose?
Norway rats can gnaw on objects and contaminate stored food. On top of that, they transmit diseases through droppings, urine, bites, and their fur which is contaminated with fleas, mites, and other parasites.
How can you tell if you have a rat problem?
Rats are usually nocturnal so you won’t see them in your house unless there is a large infestation. However, you might notice gnaw marks on your food, pipes, utilities, walls, furniture, and other items if rats are present in your home. Also, as the rats travel through the building, they will leave grease marks on walls and the floors, and you may hear the rats moving and squeaking inside the walls. You will also find their droppings, which are approximately ¼ to ½ inch long, blunt at each end, and black.
How do you control Norway rats?
It can be difficult to control rats on your own. Rats are social rodents, so it is likely that there are many other rats inside the home during an infestation. Traps can be effective, as well as poisons, but if you do not manage to completely remove the infestation, the rats will quickly replenish their numbers and carry on with business as usual. The best way to deal with an infestation is to call over a pest control pro who will completely remove the infestation for you.
How can you prevent Norway Rats from getting into your home?
While control can be hard to do DIY, there are several prevention measures that you can put in place to make your home less attractive to rats. To start, you must eliminate any food or water sources that are inside the home. Make sure that your garbage cans are secured with lids, fix any leaky outdoor faucets, and seal any cracks and crevices around utility entrances, as well as in the foundation of your home. You should also take your pet food out of its original packaging and place it in a container with a tight fitting cover.
If an infestation is already present, contact us today and we will help you remove it.
