Rats services
Rats: An Overview
Rats are small, highly adaptable rodents found all over the world. They are known for their intelligence, rapid reproduction, and ability to survive in diverse environments. While some species are kept as pets, most rats are considered pests due to the damage they cause to property, their ability to spread diseases, and their tendency to contaminate food supplies.
Types of Rats
The two most common rat species that cause problems for humans are:
- Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus) – Also known as the brown rat or sewer rat, this species is larger, prefers ground burrows, and is commonly found in urban areas.
- Roof Rat (Rattus rattus) – Also known as the black rat, this species is smaller, more agile, and prefers to nest in high places such as attics and rooftops.
Rat Behavior & Habits
- Nocturnal Creatures: Rats are mostly active at night.
- Omnivorous Diet: They eat almost anything, including grains, fruits, meat, and garbage.
- Rapid Reproduction: A single pair of rats can produce hundreds of offspring in a year.
- Gnawing Habit: Rats constantly chew on materials like wood, plastic, and even electrical wires, leading to property damage and fire hazards.
Health Risks of Rats
- Rats are known carriers of numerous diseases, including:
- Leptospirosis – A bacterial infection that can lead to kidney and liver damage.
- Salmonella – Causes food poisoning.
- Hantavirus – A virus that affects the respiratory system.
- Plague – Historically deadly, transmitted by fleas from rats.
Signs of a Rat Infestation
- Droppings around food storage areas.
- Gnaw marks on furniture, walls, and wires.
- Scratching noises in walls, ceilings, or attics.
- Grease marks along walls or floors.
- Nests made of shredded materials like paper or fabric.
Rat Control & Prevention
- Seal Entry Points: Close gaps, cracks, and holes in walls and foundations.
- Proper Waste Management: Keep trash bins sealed and remove food waste regularly.
- Eliminate Food Sources: Store food in airtight containers.
- Declutter: Remove hiding spots by organizing storage spaces.
- Use Traps & Baits: Snap traps, glue traps, and bait stations can help control infestations.
- Call Pest Control Professionals: For severe infestations, expert intervention is the best solution.
Conclusion
Rats are more than just a nuisance—they pose real threats to health and property. Preventing an infestation is easier than dealing with one, so proactive measures should always be taken. If a rat problem gets out of hand, professional pest control services, like Hero Pest Control, can provide effective solutions.
