As fall approaches and temperatures drop, rat activity around homes tends to rise. Modern’s SMART system data shows that while rats are a year-round issue, late Summer and Fall are prime times to rodent-proof and ensure your home is secure. Combining simple exclusion measures with professional pest control can keep rodents from making themselves at home as winter draws near.
The Culprits:
Norway Rats
Also known as the common rat, street rat, and brown rat, Norway rats are the most common species in New England. The average adult Norway rat reaches 16 inches in length and weighs 200-500 grams. They can be gray or brown with short, oily fur and a light underbelly. Norway rats prefer to be low to the ground and are avid burrowers.
Roof Rats
Roof rats, also known as black rats, are dark brown or black in color. The average roof rat is slightly smaller than their Norwegian cousins. Roof rats are acrobatic and will climb utility lines and branches to nest in attics, wall voids, and drop ceilings. Roof rats are significantly less common than Norway rats in New England, but their population is on the rise.
Know The Signs of Rat Infestation:
Rats may be sneaky, but they do leave behind some clues that you can use to confirm their presence in your home.
Sounds: Rats are nocturnal, so you may hear their scratching sounds at night from inside walls or in the attic. Rats may be louder than mice due to their larger size.
Droppings: Rat droppings are approximately 3/8 Inch long and 1/8 inch wide, with rounded tips. They are dark brown when fresh. Rat droppings are not to be confused with the smaller mouse droppings, which are 1/8-¼ inch long.
Burrows: You may find rat burrows around your home, indicating that rats have gotten in (or are attempting to). These burrows are usually 2-4 inches in diameter. Rats tend to burrow along walls or fences, as well as near dumpsters.
Greasy Trails: Rats tend to leave what are called rub marks or sebum deposits, which are caused when their oily fur makes contact with a surface, leaving a residue. This residue can be found at the entrance of burrows or around holes they use frequently to enter the structure.
Nests: Rats nests are made of loosely piled or balled debris that are usually 4-6 inches in diameter. Rats may nest in attics, walls, or under/just outside your house. Norway rats tend to nest lower to the ground. Roof rats, as the name might suggest, prefer a nest with a higher vantage point.
Gnaw Marks: Rats are incessant chewers, so you may find gnaw marks on furniture, drywall, wooden items, or wiring.
Rat gnaw marks are typically about 1/8 inch long, whereas those of mice are smaller. Rats also leave rougher edges on their holes, while mouse holes are “smoother” in appearance.
Tracks: Rat tracks can sometimes be seen in mud or dust in your basement or around your home. Rats have 4 toes on their front feet and 5 toes on their hind feet and their tracks are 1/2in-1in long. Rat’s hind feet appear elongated, whereas mouse prints are approximately half the size, with the front and back paw prints being about the same size.
Understanding Rat Entry Points:
Rats can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter. Check your home for potential entry points, including:
- HVAC unit lines
- Utility and cable TV holes
- Gaps under doors
- Dryer vents
- Cracks and openings in the foundation and structure
Check out Seal The Deal: Essential Rodent-Proofing Tips For Fall for tips and tricks to seal these openings.
How To get Rid of Rats: The SMART Solution
Modern offers SMART pest control technology, an eco-friendly, 24/7 wireless solution that monitors your home for pests continuously. This system includes Smart Connect Minis, Smart Connect Eyes, and Smart Snaps, which communicate with each other and our headquarters. These devices help our Pest Control Professionals identify areas with high rat activity, allowing for targeted placement and timely servicing of Smart Snaps.
With SMART technology, you’ll never have to worry about rodent issues again. Our system detects problems before you do, ensuring proactive monitoring and effective solutions.
A successful SMART service involves inspection, monitoring, and pest-proofing. Our SMART Devices assess the effectiveness of your rodent-proofing efforts, providing real-time data trends to ensure that your home remains rodent-free.
For expert help with rodent-proofing and pest control, call Modern at 800-323-7378 today!