ROOF RAT INFESTATIONS IN LAS VEGAS

Serving Las Vegas | Henderson | North Las Vegas

If you’ve been hearing eerie scurrying or scratching noises coming from your attic, you may have a roof rat problem. Roof rats aren’t a sign that you’re untidy, they’re just a byproduct of living in Las Vegas. In fact, the city has been experiencing an increase in these little pests and it shows no signs of stopping.

Fortunately, Pest Control Inc. is here for you. Below are some indicators of a roof rat infestation, what to look for, and how to deal with them. 

WHAT DO ROOF RATS LOOK LIKE?

Roof rats, also known as black rats and ship rats are small rodents, commonly light gray in color and no longer than 7 inches long, not including their tail. They are slender, and their ears are longer. Roof rats love to eat nuts, seeds, and all types of citrus. Roof rats prefer to nest in high places including trees and attics and they’re nocturnal, which means they’re more active at night. 

HOW DO ROOF RATS ENTER A HOME?

Roof rats can squeeze into the smallest of spaces. So they can enter your home through window sills, cracks in your foundation, and more. They can also gain access underneath your garage door or entryway door if there’s a large enough gap. Roof rats are also fearless climbers. They can survive a fall of up to 50 feet! They will travel along power lines, tree branches, and your roof to find food or escape from predators.

SIGNS YOU HAVE A ROOF RAT INFESTATION

Roof rats, also known as black rats or ship rats, are a common type of rat that can infest homes and buildings. Identifying the signs of a roof rat infestation is important so that you can take prompt action to address the problem. Here are some common signs of a roof rat infestation:

• Droppings: Roof rat droppings are typically small, dark, and spindle-shaped. Finding these droppings in and around your home, especially in attic spaces, is a clear sign of their presence.
• Gnawing: Roof rats have a constant need to gnaw on things to keep their teeth sharp. Look for gnaw marks on wood, wires, and other materials in your home.
• Scratching Noises: Roof rats are active at night and can be heard scratching, scurrying, or squeaking in walls, ceilings, and attic spaces. These noises are often the first auditory sign of an infestation.
• Nesting Materials: Roof rats build nests from shredded materials such as paper, insulation, and fabric. You might find these materials in hidden corners, attics, or wall voids.
• Visible Rat Sightings: Seeing roof rats in or around your property is an obvious sign of an infestation. Roof rats are typically smaller and sleeker than Norway rats and are often dark brown or black.
• Urine Odor: A strong, musty odor may be present in areas where roof rats are active. This odor is often due to their urine and can be a telltale sign of infestation.
• Holes or Entry Points: Inspect your property for potential entry points. Roof rats can gain access through openings as small as half an inch. Seal any gaps or holes you find to prevent further entry.
• Dirt or Grease Trails: Roof rats often travel along the same paths, which can result in the formation of dirt or grease trails on surfaces they frequently use.

If you notice any of the signs above, it’s important to take action immediately, in order to prevent the infestation from spreading. Contact a professional rodent exterminator as soon as possible.

ARE ROOF RATS DANGEROUS?

Yes, roof rats can pose a few risks to humans. Roof rats are carriers of fleas and can transmit dangerous diseases such as Hantavirus and Salmonella through various means, including physical contact, bites, droppings, and the feeding of fleas that infest them. Additionally, these pests can wreak havoc on your home and possessions, causing significant damage through their incessant chewing and contaminating your environment with urine and droppings.

YOUR LOCAL EXPERTS IN ROOF RAT REMOVAL

Having a roof rat infestation can be unsettling, and preventing their entry can be challenging due to the many potential access points they use. 

If you’re dealing with roof rats in your Las Vegas home, reach out to Pest Control Inc. Our skilled technicians will come to your home, eliminate the rat problem, and seal off potential entry points to ensure they don’t return. 

Feel free to contact us today for more information or to request a free quote! 

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