If you have rats on your property, you need to determine their species before you can start to get rid of them.
For more than 20 years, Smith’s Pest Management has been offering rat control services to Bay Area customers.
We’ve compiled our best tips for recognizing (and controlling) roof rats and Norway rats into this blog.
Key Takeaways
- To identify roof rats vs. Norway rats start by looking for telltale signs like the rat’s size and coloration – roof rats have smaller bodies and longer tails, while Norway rats are larger and bulkier with shorter tails.
- Once you’ve identified the type of rats present, focus on taking proactive prevention and management steps, like sealing gaps and cracks, setting traps, and getting rid of food sources.
- If you need extra help getting rid of pests, contact Smith’s Pest Management at (408) 871-6988.
What Are Roof Rats and Norway Rats?
Roof rats, scientifically known as Rattus rattus, are known for their slender bodies and long tails, which are usually longer than their bodies.
Norway rats, also known as brown rats or sewer rats, are large rodents with a heavier build and shorter tails than roof rats.
This dietary flexibility makes them successful survivors and significant pests in rural and urban settings, especially in areas where food waste is prevalent.
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How to Tell if You Have Roof Rats or Norway Rats
Identifying whether you have roof or Norway rats can help you choose the most effective control methods.
Signs of Roof Rats
Sign | Description |
Droppings | Small, spindle-shaped droppings with pointed ends, about half an inch long. |
Gnaw Marks | Roof rats leave behind smaller teeth marks since they have sharper, finer incisors. |
Tracks and Runways | Roof rats prefer elevated routes; you might find oily streaks and smudge marks along rafters, branches, and on other above-ground-level surfaces. |
Nests | Roof rat nests are usually found in high places, these nests are made from materials such as shredded paper or twigs and are typically located in attics, trees, or above ground. |
Damage | Damage is often higher up, such as chewed wires or attic insulation. |
Signs of Norway Rats
Sign | Description |
Droppings | Large, capsule-shaped droppings with blunt ends, approximately three-quarters of an inch long. |
Gnaw Marks | Larger, rougher gnaw marks indicative of their stronger bite and more prominent teeth. |
Tracks and Runways | More likely to travel at ground level, leaving parallel footprints and tail drag marks in dusty or muddy areas. |
Nests | Nest in underground burrows or secluded ground-level areas, using materials like soil, insulation, and soft debris. |
Damage | Known for ground-level damage, including burrow entrance holes around foundations and chewed materials in basements or lower structures. |
Roof Rat Control Tips
- Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your home to identify and seal any holes or cracks that may serve as entry points for roof rats. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and rooftops, and seal any crack or gap that’s the size of your thumb or larger.
- Remove Outdoor Food Sources: To minimize attractants, securely cover trash bins, store pet food indoors, and promptly clean up fallen fruit or nuts from trees.
- Trim Trees and Vegetation: Keep trees, shrubs, and other vegetation well-trimmed, especially if they’re near the house. This prevents rats from using overhanging branches as pathways onto roofs and into attics.
- Eliminate Nesting Sites: Reduce clutter in your yard, garage, and attic to make it harder for roof rats to find places to nest.
- Set Traps and Baits: Place traps or bait stations strategically along suspected rat pathways. Follow instructions carefully to ensure effective and safe usage, especially in homes with pets or children.
- Consult Professional Pest Control Services: If roof rat problems persist despite preventive measures, enlist the expertise of professional pest control services to assess the situation and employ targeted treatments.
Norway Rat Control Tips
- Seal Entry Points: Like roof rats, keep Norway Rats away by sealing all potential entry points, especially in basements and ground-level areas. Use steel wool and caulk to block holes and cracks effectively. Again – patch anything the size of your thumb or larger.
- Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly clean indoor and outdoor areas to eliminate food and water sources that may attract Norway rats. Store food in airtight containers and clean up spills or crumbs promptly. Do not leave garbage bags outside for extended periods, and schedule regular waste pickups.
- Manage Landscaping: Make sure there’s minimal clutter around your property, since Norway rats nest in overgrown vegetation and piles of debris. Keep grass short and remove any unnecessary outdoor clutter.
- Inspect for Water Leaks: Inspect your home for leaks, particularly in basements and crawl spaces, as Norway rats are drawn to sources of water. Repair any leaks immediately to eliminate these attractions.
- Seek Professional Assistance: If Norway rat issues continue despite your control efforts, consider contacting professional pest control services for a thorough assessment and a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your situation.
When to Call a Pest Control Professional
Homeowners should consider calling a pest control professional if they notice any of the following signs:
- Increased droppings or rat signs. If you notice an increasing number of droppings, especially in concentrated amounts around food sources or near burrows.
- Strange noises. If you hear persistent scratching or rustling sounds within walls or ceilings, you may have a large infestation that requires professional attention.
- Signs of damage. Discovering gnawed wires, furniture, or insulation may pose safety risks, such as electrical fires or structural damage, so it’s wise to hire a pro to help you stop this damage in its tracks.
For more information on how to get rid of rats, check out our comprehensive blog on the topic.
Don’t Settle for Living With Rats – Smith’s Pest Management Can Help!
Handling a rat infestation can be stressful, but don’t worry—you’re not alone.
Here at Smith’s Pest Management, we’ve been providing customized rat control solutions for Bay Area customers for over 20 years, and we can help you reclaim your property.
Call us today at (408) 871-6988 to learn more about our services and how our team can help you!
FAQs
Do rats spread diseases?
Yes, rats spread many diseases that can affect humans and pets.
They can transmit diseases directly through their urine, droppings, and bites, and indirectly through ticks, mites, or fleas that have fed on an infected rat.
Some diseases associated with rats include leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonella.
How can I prevent rat infestations?
Preventing rat infestations involves a combination of sanitation, exclusion, and proper maintenance.
- Keep your property clean and free of clutter where rats might hide.
- Ensure all food is stored in airtight containers, and promptly clean up spills and crumbs.
- Seal any holes or cracks in the walls, foundation, and around doors and windows to block entry points.
- Regularly inspect your home for leaks and standing water, which can attract rats.
- Trimming vegetation and keeping the yard tidy can also help deter these pests.
Why do I have rats in my home?
Rats are attracted to environments with easy access to the resources they need, namely food, water, and shelter.
If these resources are available, it increases the likelihood of a rat infestation.
Homes with lots of food waste, pet food that’s left out overnight, or unsecured garbage pretty much invite rodents in.
Additionally, properties with structural openings or outdoor clutter, such as debris and overgrown vegetation, provide ideal nesting sites for rats seeking refuge.