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Have you heard scratching noises or come across small, dark brown droppings? If so, you could potentially have a rat infestation – but don’t worry we're here to help. Rats are most active during the night, so it is often easier to spot the signs of a rat infestation than the actual rat. Below we have explained the signs that could indicate that you have a potential rat problem.
If any of the signs mentioned apply to your property, we recommend acting quickly and scheduling an inspection with us to ensure the potential infestation doesn’t spread any further.
Droppings tend to be found concentrated in specific locations, as rats produce up to 40 droppings per night.
Rats have terrible eyesight, so they use established routes along skirting boards and walls to help with navigation. Grease and dirt on their bodies leave smudges and dark marks on the objects and surfaces they repeatedly brush up against.
Black rats are agile climbers, earning them their common name – the roof rat. Often found in attics, you may hear scratching noises at night. Brown rats can be identified by a grinding noise they make with their teeth.
Brown rats are well known for digging and excavating extensive burrow systems for shelter, food storage and nesting. They build rat burrows next to solid objects or structures.
Rat nests can be found in lofts, attics, under eaves and even in cavity walls. Rats will shred available materials such as loft insulation, cardboard and other soft items to make nests.
Rats leave foot and tail marks in dusty, less-used areas of buildings. To establish if an infestation is active, sprinkle fine flour or talc in the area near the footprints and check for fresh tracks the next day.
If you think you have rats, it is important to act quickly to control the level of infestation and reduce the health risks posed by these rodents. You can also take practical steps now to rat-proof your home or business and help prevent rats. Contact us today for a free inspection and we’ll take care of the rest.