Facts & Information
What are Rats?
Rats are very adaptable and intelligent rodent species. Like all rodents, rats constantly chew on hard objects in order to keep their sharp front incisors from overgrowing. The two most common rat species in Wisconsin are the roof rat and Norway rat. Roof rats have smooth brown fur and grow between 6 to 8 inches in length. They are excellent climbers and tend to build nests in attics. Norway rats have long heavy bodies with coarse, shaggy brown fur. They grow between 7 to 10 inches in length. Norway rats are a burrowing species of rat and tend to invade basements and the first floors of buildings.
Why Do I Have Them?
A rat only needs a ½ inch sized opening to gain entry into a building. Rats are in your home looking for food, water, and shelter. Open trash cans, bird feeders, compost piles, and pet food will attract rats to your property. While rats can enter homes any time of the year, they are significantly more problematic in autumn when looking for a warm, safe place to overwinter. Rats will gnaw at foundations and roofing to enlarge entryways. Once inside, rats will live in attics, basements, crawl spaces, and walls.
Why Should I Be Concerned?
Rats are very problematic when they invade your home or business. They are filthy pests that contaminate food with droppings and urine. Rats are also known to spread diseases like salmonella and dysentery and introduce parasites like fleas and ticks into your home. Rats can also cause significant structural damage and potential electrical fires from their constant chewing. If not controlled immediately, a small problem can soon turn into a full-blown rat infestation due to their rapid reproduction.
Treatment & Control
How Do I Get Rid of Rats?
Rats are a challenging pest to eliminate from your home because of their nesting habits and adaptability. Our pest management professionals conduct thorough inspections and use highly effective rat removal and exclusion methods to properly manage rodent problems. Since every home is different, our technician will create a customized action plan for your situation.
Rats are a common pest in Wisconsin. Our rodent control and exclusion services will protect your home and business year-round against rats. No contracts are required. If you notice any signs of rodents, contact our expert pest exterminators. We are ready to help you!
How Do I Keep Rats Out of My House?
Preventing rats from invading your home and business can be a difficult task; however, you can take a few steps to help stop them. Remove bird feeders from your property. Store food in the kitchen in sealed containers. Trim back vegetation around the exterior of your house. Relocate any woodpiles or compost piles at least 10-15 feet away from your home. Make sure that garbage cans have secure lids on them.
