How to tell if you have roof rats?
If you live in Sydney, chances are you've heard of roof rats. These pesky rodents are notorious for causing damage and spreading disease, so it's important to know how to tell if you have them in your home. But don't panic - here are the top 5 ways to tell if you have roof rats, and when to call in the experts.
Look for droppings: One of the tell-tale signs of roof rat activity is the presence of droppings. They're small, cylindrical, and dark in color, and can often be found near food sources or nesting areas. While this might not be the most pleasant thing to look for, it's a surefire way to know if you have roof rats in your home.
Listen for noises: Roof rats are most active at night, so if you hear scratching or scurrying noises coming from your attic or walls, it's likely that you have roof rats. Don't worry though, these noises can also be mistaken for other critters like possums or birds, so it's always good to get a second opinion.
Look for gnaw marks: Roof rats have strong teeth and will chew on almost anything to keep them sharp. So, if you notice gnaw marks on wood, plastic, or other materials that rats may have chewed on to access food or nesting sites, it's likely that you have roof rats in your home.
Check for nests: Roof rats typically build their nests in hidden areas, such as in attics, wall voids, or in dense vegetation. If you notice any signs of nesting materials, such as shredded paper, fabric, or insulation, it's likely that you have a roof rat infestation.
Look for tracks: Roof rats leave footprints and tail marks in dusty or dirty areas. If you notice tracks or smudges along walls or on surfaces near food sources, it's likely that you have roof rats in your house. But don't worry, these tracks can be easily cleaned up once the problem is taken care of.
If you notice any of these signs of a roof rat infestation, it's important to take action as soon as possible. Roof rats can quickly multiply in numbers and become a serious pest problem if left unchecked. That's why it's important to call in the experts when things get out of hand.
When to engage pest control?
It's best to call in the professionals as soon as you notice any signs of roof rats in your home. They'll be able to identify the source of the problem and develop a customised treatment plan that fits your needs. They'll also be able to provide you with ongoing prevention strategies to ensure that the problem doesn't come back.
Don't let roof rats ruin your peace of mind. By looking for signs of droppings, listening for noises, checking for gnaw marks, looking for nests, and looking for tracks, you'll be able to tell if you have roof rats in your home. And when things get out of hand, don't hesitate to call O&L Pest Control to discuss your problem further.