The Trick To Getting Rid Of A Rat Infestation On Your Las Vegas Property
Rodents such as mice, rats, and squirrels, are mammals that belong to the order Rodentia and are among the most common types of pests. In the Las Vegas region, the most prevalent type of rat is the roof rat (Rattus rattus). To a lesser extent, Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) also exist in the area.
Roof rats are adept climbers that routinely navigate their way up trees and walls—often reaching the roof. According to the Southern Nevada Health District, roof rats began appearing in the region in 1990. While Norway rats often reach lengths of 17 inches or more, including their tail, roof rats rarely exceed 14 inches in total length. Roof rats have a slender body style that typically weighs from five to ten ounces with dark brown or black fur and much lighter fur on their belly.
Roof rats are primarily nocturnal and usually prefer areas with ample vegetation and standing water. They eat a diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and more. Roof rats in Las Vegas often nest in the upper areas of palm trees and commonly wander freely because of a lack of predators. Yearly populations of these creatures may fluctuate based on weather patterns and other variables.
Have you detected the presence of rats on your property? Rats are creatures known for posing health risks; therefore, property owners should generally consult with a professional. A Las Vegas pest control company will maintain the knowledge and tools to handle these concerns safely. A licensed professional knows how to eliminate rats and the best ways of preventing them from returning.
How To Tell If It Is Rats Scurrying Around Your House
In many instances, homeowners will initially detect rats at night as they scurry around. As an infestation of roof rats progresses, significant visible amounts of excrement may accumulate along with foul odors.
Why do rats come in your house? As with most pests, roof rats will enter homes searching for food. They also may seek a nesting location, usually on the structure's upper floors, which offers some level of protection from predators.
The Damage And Dangers Of A Rat Infestation In Your Home
Rats and other types of rodents in Las Vegas will cause property damage to drywall, insulation, wiring, and cabling as they burrow and continually gnaw (chew) on a variety of objects. What can rats chew through? Rats often demonstrate the strength of their jaws by chewing through wood, aluminum, and many other materials.
What kind of diseases do rats carry? Rats are associated with harmful conditions, including rat-bite fever, salmonellosis, tularemia, and many other health concerns.
Will rats attack humans? Rats generally flee when encountering humans; however, when cornered, they might “lunge,” attempting to bite.
Four Easy Rodent Exclusion Tips To Prevent Future Rat Infestations
Implementing some simple exclusionary measures is key when considering how to prevent rats. Some of the best strategies for prevention include:
- Check the exterior of the structure for any cracks or openings and fill them with caulk or sealant.
- Install screens or other mesh-like material across exterior vents, chimneys, and utility pass-throughs.
- Avoid attracting rats to the exterior of the home by placing all trash bags in durable, sealed receptacles.
- Trim back tree branches and other vegetation to prevent them from accessing the roof.
Keep in mind that pools of water such as in birdbaths, as well as fallen food below bird feeders and pet food that is left outdoors, are all things that may attract rats.
The Safe And Effective Way To Remove Rats From Your Home
The team of professionals with Pest Control Solutions Inc. provides industry-leading solutions for Las Vegas-area property owners struggling with rodents. Contact our office today for more information.
