The Norway Rat

If you are experiencing a rat problem, it is understandable that you want the
creatures out of your home as quickly as possible. If you are like most homeowners,
you have probably assumed that all rat traps are basically the same.
You might be surprised to learn that there are more than 50 subspecies of
rats, each with its own physical characteristics, behavioral traits, and in many
cases, specific diet. Understanding some of the most common types of rats can
help you to identify what kind of rat you are dealing with which can go a long way
toward ridding your home of them for good.

The most common is the Norway rats, also known as brown rats, they are some of
the largest rats out there, often totaling up to 20 inches, including the tail. Their
coarse fur is usually brown or dark grey, and they have a lighter underside. Their
droppings are capsule shaped, and about three quarters of an inch long. They live
about one year, six to twelve pups per litter, up to seven litters per year.
Rats burrow in the ground, under buildings and rubbish; usually living well within
150 feet of food and water source. Rats require about one ounce of food a day and
a half ounce of water.

Norway rats are very adaptable to different climates and temperature zones. They
are also great swimmers, so you might spot them near lakes and rivers and in
backyard pools. Norway rats are found throughout the U.S., particularly in large
cities that provide a variety of food sources. As omnivores, they will eat anything
from small birds and eggs to plant life, food scraps and small invertebrates,
(Invertebrates are animals without a backbone or bony skeleton. They range in
size from microscopic mites and almost invisible flies to giant squid).
Why control rats?

Rats, whether dead or alive, spread disease. They contaminate our food with urine
and droppings. They also can start fires by gnawing on electric wires; and destroy
keepsakes and valuable possessions by gnawing.

How to identify a rodent problem
Rodents are generally most active at night. They leave telltale signs, including
Rub and gnaw marks. Burrows and tracks; and Droppings.

How to get rid of rats
Rats are like people. They need a place to live and food to eat. If you remove their
shelter and food, rats CAN be eliminated.
Place bird food in a feeder, not on the ground.
Clean up spillage daily!
Use metal trash cans or approved plastic with tight-fitting lids.
Keep trash cans covered!
Clean up fallen fruits and nuts from the ground.
Remove pet food dishes and leftovers promptly after feeding.
Clean up animal waste frequently!
Remove shelter! A dilapidated shed or automobile is an invitation to rats.
Repair or remove them! Rats can jump up to three feet and climb wires and
pipe very well. Be sure to seal any openings to the house, even above ground
level. This includes the garage, openings in the foundations, and the
basement floor drain. Keep doors and windows screened with half-inch
mesh hardware cloth. Store lumber, firewood, or other materials well off the
ground. Repair any breaks in the sewer line which connects your home with
the main sewer system.

Final note
Never touch rodents, objects they have contaminated, or rodent poison.
Always wear disposable gloves when handling rodents, rodent bait or when
cleaning rodent soiled areas.
Avoid stirring up and breathing dust in these areas.
Wear a mask to avoid breathing dust particles contaminated by rodents.
To eliminate dust, use a disinfectant to dampen soiled nesting material and
droppings before sweeping.
Wash your hands afterwards.

If your own efforts have not given the results you are looking for, it may be time to
call in Evans Pest Control at (267) 582-2687.
Evans Pest Professionals will put the best rodent control practices and
technology in to place so that we can rid your house of rats and mice.