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Roof rats are clever animals that frequently find a way into Hendersonville homes while searching for food, water, or shelter. As their name suggests, these pests tend to occupy the upper levels of the house, like the attic. These social animals generally forage with up to ten other rats and breed rapidly, so if you see one, there is a good chance there are many more hiding throughout your home.
This article will explain how to identify roof rats and review their risks to your health and property. We’ll also provide expert tips for rat-proofing your roof to ensure these problematic pests can’t find a way inside. Read on to learn more about roof rat control in Hendersonville with the pros from All-American Pest Control.
Introduction To Roof Rats: Identifying The Common Urban Pest
Roof rats in Hendersonville have soft brown fur with black intermixed and have sleek, thin bodies between six and eight inches long. These rats have scaly tails longer than their bodies, large ears and eyes, and a pointed nose. Because they are nocturnal and try to avoid contact with people, the following signs of a roof rat infestation can help with identification:
- Droppings around half an inch long, capsule-shaped with pointed ends
- Greasy, dark rub marks along walls
- Running and squealing sounds from the attic or walls
- Damaged food products
- Gnaw marks on belongings
If you see any signs of these pests, contact us today at All-American Pest Control for help getting rid of rats and keeping them out.
Roof Rat Dangers: Health Risks And Property Damage Explained
Roof rats are dangerous rodents to have inside your house. These pests spread numerous diseases, including rat-bite fever (from a bite or scratch), jaundice from food and water contamination, and food poisoning. They also frequently carry fleas that can spread diseases like typhus.
Roof rats in the attic and walls ruin insulation with their waste and can chew on wiring, creating a fire hazard. Their constant gnawing causes damage to your belongings, walls, and furniture.
Roof Rat-Proofing Your Roof: Sealing Entry Points And Vulnerabilities
Your roof is the most common entry point for roof rats, but there are steps you can take to help keep them out of your home. Seal holes or cracks larger than a quarter with silicone caulk, place wire mesh screens over vents, and check that attic windows are secure. You’ll also want to cut tree limbs away from the roof line to prevent them from climbing onto the roof.
Other roof rat prevention techniques involve eliminating potential food sources from the yard, like fallen fruit, and keeping trash in receptacles with secure lids. You’ll also want to remove water sources, including birdbaths and leaky sprinkler heads.
Ready to Get Rid of Roof Rats? Contact Our Experts Today!
Roof rats can be incredibly challenging to eradicate from a home, and DIY products can be ineffective. The pros at All-American Pest Control are here to assist with rat removal solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how our professional home pest control services can help you get rid of these hazardous pests and prevent them from returning.