Roof rat walking on wood

How to Keep Roof Rats From Nesting in Your Home

Rats are one of the most common pests in the world. They're also one of the most feared, and for a good reason. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also carry disease. But of all the different types of rats, roof rats are perhaps the most problematic. That's because they're known for being good climbers. This means that they can access your home through holes and cracks in your roof. Once they're inside, they can quickly become a nuisance.

Comprehensive Roof Rat Prevention and Removal Guide

Fortunately for you, there are some things you can do to prevent roof rats from making themselves at home in your house. In this blog post, we'll take a look at what roof rats are, how they get into homes, and some simple prevention tips you can use to keep them out. We'll also provide some information on what to do if you already have an infestation.

What are Roof Rats?

Roof rats are black or dark brown rodents that grow up to 16 inches long, including their tails. They get their name from their affinity for nesting in high places, such as attics, roofs, and trees. They're also known as Black rats, ship rats, house rats, and tree rats. Roof rats are omnivorous and will eat just about anything, but they're especially fond of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

How Do They Get Into The House?

Since roof rats are good climbers, they can easily access your home through gaps in the roofline or openings around vents and pipes. Once they're inside your home, they will begin nesting and reproducing quickly. A female roof rat can have up to three litters of five to eight young per year!

Ways To Prevent An Infestation

The best way to deal with roof rats is to prevent them from getting into your home in the first place. Here are some tips for keeping roof rats away:

 
  • -Seal any cracks or holes in your foundation and repair any damaged screens.

  • -Keep tree branches trimmed back from your house so that roof rats can't use them as a "bridge" to get onto your roof.

  • -Remove any potential nesting sites from your yard, such as woodpiles, debris piles, and overgrown vegetation.

  • -Make sure all food is properly stored in airtight containers and that garbage is disposed of in a sealed receptacle.

  • -If you have pet food bowls outside, bring them inside at night so that roof rats don't have access to an easy meal.

  • -Use traps or baits around your property according to label directions (if you use baits containing poison, make sure they're placed where children and pets can't reach them).

  • -If you notice any signs of a roof rat infestation in or around your home—such as droppings or gnawed openings—contact a pest control professional right away for help with removal and prevention.

If You Already Have Them...

Getting Rid Of Roof Rats once they have infiltrated your home can be a challenge. That's why it's always best to call in a pest control professional who has experience dealing with these pesky critters. In the meantime, here are some tips for getting rid of roof rats:

 
  • When using traps or baits, place them against walls so that roof rats will travel through them on their way to food sources.

  • Poisoned bait should be placed where children and pets cannot reach it. It's important to note that poisoned bait will kill not only the rodents but also other animals that may eat it—so use this method with caution! If you have pets, it's best to consult with your veterinarian before using poisoned bait..

  • Another option for getting rid of roof rats is through the use of snap traps. These should be placed along walls where you've seen evidence of rodent activity (droppings/gnaw marks/etc.). Be sure to check the traps regularly and dispose of any deceased rodents according to the label directions so that you don't end up with a stinky mess on your hands! If you have pets or small children in the home, snap traps may not be the best option, as there is always a risk of injury if someone accidentally steps on one.

  • One final method for getting rid of pesky roof rats is through the use of glue boards. Glue boards work by luring rodents onto them with bait and then trapping them when they try to leave. As with snap traps, glue boards should be placed along walls where you've seen evidence of rodent activity.

 

Whatever method you choose for getting rid of roof rats from your home baits/traps/glue boards—be sure to follow label directions carefully so that you don't put yourself or your family members at risk.

Roof Rat Removal in Arizona

Have roof rats invaded your home? No need to fear, as the expert team at Arizona's Best Choice Pest & Termite Services can help you kick out those nasty critters and keep them out all year long. To learn more about our pest prevention services, give our team a call at (480) 418-3068 or fill out an online contact form, and a team member will reach out to you shortly.
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