Roof rats are no joke. Just ask anyone who’s ever muttered the words, “Help! I have roof rats in my Lake Worth Home!” If an infestation is present, it can be a seemingly insurmountable task to get the situation under control.
What Are Roof Rats?
Ranging anywhere from 12 to 16 inches from snout to tail, these creatures may not seem harmful due to their small size but that is not the case. Roof rats bring friends and mayhem. Distinguishing a roof rat from other rodents can be done primarily through sight.
Roof rats are larger than house mice and smaller than Norway rats. These pests are thin and may have longer tails than Norway rats. Also referred to as palm rats, ship rats, and black rats, these pests are most commonly found in temperate coastal areas, like Florida. Roof rats are usually brown but can have gray, black, or white fur as well.
Roof Rat Risks
Roof Rats Can Prove Harmful
These nasty invaders can cause bodily harm. Roof rats can spread typhus, trichinosis, jaundice, salmonellosis, and even the notorious bubonic plague. This type of rat can also sicken people through food and counter space contamination. Rat-bite fever is a reality and can cause extremely unpleasant symptoms. Even pets can be in danger. Roof rats carry fleas which can invade pets’ bodies and spaces. Toxoplasmosis, tularemia, and leptospirosis are other ways household pets are vulnerable to the dangers of roof rats.
Roof Rats Destroy Homes
Property destruction can be a major catalyst that causes a homeowner to shriek, “Help! I have roof rats in my Lake Worth Home!” Sharp teeth and strong jaws can create extensive residential damage. Electrical wires, wood, drywall, plastic, roof shingles, insulation, and even lightweight metal can be found chewed in the wake of a roof rat infestation.
Roof Rats Are Disgusting
These varmints are also messy; they can turn sections of homeowners’ residences into ratty restrooms filled with black droppings and toxic urine. Roof rats come in uninvited and help themselves to residents’ food, pet food, water, fabric, books, and more. When these rodents run along parts of the house, they tend to leave greasy marks that contain a scent left to attract even more roof rats.
Roof Rats Can Be Tough To Combat
Mother Nature has bestowed these furry beasts with wonderful ways of thriving in the modern world. Naturally adept at climbing to great heights, aptly named roof rats can find their way into homes by simply scurrying from tree limbs into eaves despite the roof pitch.
Signs You Have A Roof Rat Problem In Your West Palm Beach Home
If you have rodents in your home, you will likely begin to notice some indicators. Whether it's a roof rat or another rodent, these signs will assure you that it's time to take action:
- Droppings: Roof rats tend to be most active at night, and you may notice droppings left behind.
- Musty odor: Over time, urine and feces will leave behind an unpleasant odor.
- Scratching sounds: As roof rats move about, you may hear scratching in your walls or ceiling.
- Pet behavior: If you have a dog or a cat, they may be more aware of your rodent problem. If they're scratching or barking at walls, it may indicate that you have rodents.
- Gnaw marks: Like mice and other rats, roof rats chew incessantly to file down their teeth. You may notice gnaw marks on cardboard, furniture, or drywall. If you have fruit trees, rodents will use this as a food source, so check for eaten fruit as well.
- Faulty electricity: If your lights are blinking or inexplicably stop working, this may indicate a rodent problem.
- Spotting a rodent: If you see one, there are likely more. You may see rodents in your home or running across tree limbs to access entry points on your roof.
Some signs are more hazardous than others. Electrical issues and mold and mildew associated with a rodent problem are certainly cause for concern. In the end, the best way to avoid rodents is to implement some preventative measures and elicit help from a professional pest control company.
Prevention Tips For West Palm Beach Property Owners
While there’s no magic wand to keep a home free of these nasty rodents, measures can be taken to help deter roof rats. Begin outside; cut tree limbs so they don’t provide easy passage into the house, trim hedges near home, and ensure grass stays clipped regularly. Trash receptacles should be kept closed snugly.
Remove paper products and cardboard from your garage. Ensure food is stored in bins that close tightly and promptly wipe up any food spills. Keep pet food in sealed containers. Deter roof rats from fireplaces by installing a chimney cap. Be sure to get a chimney cap that has a mesh covering for maximum prevention.
A Comprehensive Solution With Above and Beyond Pest Control
Calling the experts is the best way to avoid ever shrieking, “Help! I have roof rats in my Lake Worth home!” Trained professionals at Above And Beyond Pest Control have a veritable roof rat arsenal at their disposal. It's all in our name; we will treat your home like we treat our own. Reach out to us today to learn more about our rodent control solutions. We also provide quality commercial pest control services.