What do you imagine when you think about rats? Do you think of a cute rodent that you would want to keep as a pet, or do you think of a dirty sewer monster living in subway tunnels and spreading disease? People have somewhat polarizing views on rats and other rodents. Still, while domestic rats can make good pets, wild rats can be dangerous. These rodents are invasive, home-infesting pests that can spread disease and destroy property. Professional pest control services are often necessary if you find yourself dealing with a rat or mouse infestation. Find out more about removing rats and identifying infestations in this guide.
How To Identify A Rat/Mouse Infestation
The first thing you need to know about how to properly identify these invaders is what these rodents look like. Both mice and rats can either be brownish-gray or dark brown to black. Rats are typically around 12-15 inches long, including their tails, and they have black, beady eyes and scaly tails. Mice are much smaller, usually between 4-8 inches long.
While it’s good to know what rats look like, other signs of these rodents might pop up first. Knowing how to identify rodent activity from the clues they leave behind can helps your Pest Control Experts' technician pinpoint and remove infestations quickly.
Here is what to watch out for:
· The build-up of their urine creates an ammonia smell.
· Brown rod-shaped droppings show up, especially in attics, basements, kitchen cabinets, and other hidden areas.
· Chew and bite marks found near small openings.
· Scratching, scurrying and squeaking noises from the inside of walls.
If you suspect a rat infestation, it’s essential to take the problem seriously since these rodents can spread illnesses and disease.
The Dangerous Diseases Rats Are Known To Spread
Not all rat infestations will make you sick, but rats are known to be dangerous to human health. They are potentially hazardous because they can transmit hantavirus, rat-bite fever, and salmonellosis. Even worse, rats don’t need to bite you or contact your skin to make you sick. They can transmit illness through the build-up of their fur, urine, and feces. They often invade pantries and other food sources which can transmit pathogens directly to your food.
Why You Shouldn't Try To Get Rid Of Rats On Your Own
If you spot any signs of these signs, you might try to remove them using DIY rodent control, but these methods are usually ineffective. Rats are prolific breeders, and they can survive on small food crumbs. They are also great at hiding, and can even fit through a hole the size of a quarter. Furthermore, the products needed to remove rodent infestations can be dangerous to apply if done improperly. Sadly, many family pets are poisoned annually due to the improper use of rodenticide products. These factors make rodent removal difficult without help of pest control professionals like the ones at Pest Control Experts. So, if you are trying to eradicate mice and rats, reach out to Pest Control Experts for help.
The Safe And Effective Way To Get Rid Of Rats On Your Property
Now you know the signs and potential problems associated with rodent activity. So, how do you get rid of them safely and effectively? Just call Pest Control Experts today for a free inspection. Let our trained and experienced professionals handle the dirty work. Within a few days, your rodent worries will be a thing of the past.
Tags: Rodent Control, Rat Identification, Rat Infestations