“Rodent” refers to a large order of mammals known for their big, gnawing front teeth and chewing side teeth. Some live in the wilderness minding their own business while others live in or near urban areas, making pests of themselves by damaging lawns and buildings and stealing supplies of food.
Norway Rat Characteristics
Norway rats are stocky burrowing rodents that have coarse brown fur with scattered black hairs and a gray to white underside. They measure 7-9½ inches in length. It is very common to have Norway rats living close to people because we have suitable food, water and shelter. They can climb but prefer to inhabit lower levels of buildings where they create nests. They will eat just about anything they can find but if they have a choice, they prefer fresh, wholesome items instead of stale or contaminated food. The amount of water they require will depend on the types of food they are eating. The items they can find in household garbage offers them a pretty balanced diet and is enough to satisfy their moisture needs. Rats rely on their hearing, sense of taste, smell and touch as they have poor eyesight. They are nocturnal, active at dusk when they will start looking for food and water. Gnawing and burrowing can cause structural damage and irrigation system damage. They can also gnaw on electrical wires and water pipes. Rats will also cause damage when they gnaw openings through doors, window, walls, ceilings, floors and insulation. Rats sightings during the day, indicates an infestation nearby.
How to Identify a Norway Rat Infestation
• Droppings. Found along runways, in feeding areas and shelter.
• Tracks that include footprints and tail marks. These can be seen in dusty areas or in the dirt.
• Urine can be seen under a blacklight in the sane areas as droppings.
• Rub marks from greasy fur can be seen in areas they travel
• Gnaw marks. Entry holes can be as small as 2 inches in diameter
• Sounds include gnawing, climbing, clawing and squeaks
Norway Rat Prevention
Garbage cans need to have secure lids on them, and food needs to be sealed correctly. Windows and doors should remain closed, especially at night when rats are more active. Gaps around doors and windows need to be sealed along with any other openings they will use to get into your home. Tree branches should not be touching your home. Reduce their food supply by keeping your yard and home clean. Reduce any source of water by fixing plumbing leaks and ensuring that your sprinkler system is not dripping or leaking water. Outdoor containers of water should also be removed.
Rat Inspections, Control & Removal in San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside & San Diego Counties, California
Female rats can come into heat every four to five days and can mate within a day or two after a litter is born. This means that populations can explode very quickly. It’s imperative to get a rat problem under control as quickly as possible. Animal Pest Management Services, Inc. are trained to help manage Norway rats. Contact us as soon as you suspect you’re dealing with them or any other pest.
