Roof Rat

Roof Rats

The roof rat is more at home in warm climates, therefore they are native to the lower half of the United States. They frequently enter buildings from the roof or from accesses near overhead utility lines and are often found living on the second floor of a warehouse or home. The food habits of outdoor roof rats in some respects resemble those of tree squirrels since they prefer a wide variety of fruit and nuts. They are capable of transmitting diseases, causing damage to crops, and damaging insulation and electrical wiring.

 

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Description

 Size 10-12 in.
 Color Black or brown
 Body Structure Slender body with smooth fur, large eyes and ears, and a pointed snout.
 Characteristics Roof rats reach maturity at 4 months and can produce 4-6 litters of offspring each year. The average lifespan of a roof rat is 12 months. They also are characterized by their social hierarchy, where dominant males breed more frequently and subordinates are relegated to scavenging for food.
 Habitat & Behavior As the name implies, roof rats tend to nest above the ground in spots ranging from trees to roofs and attics. Roof rats are stellar climbers. Omnivorous, roof rats will eat any food that is readily available, although they prefer nuts, grains, and berries. They also are food hoarders, scavenging for food and then storing much more than they can eat in a single feeding.
 Prevention & Treatment To prevent roof rats from entering your home, make sure cracks are sealed and that window screens are in a proper state of repair. Trimming back tree limbs so that they are not touching your home also may prevent roof rats from invading. Because roof rats are disease-carrying pests, you should exercise caution if you suspect an infestation. Although traditional traps may be effective in catching a few of the vermin, a larger infestation may lurk. Likewise, poisonous rat bait should be administered with caution as rats are prone to spread bait around, meaning that your family and pets may come in contact with the rat poison. It is strongly suggested that you contact a pest control professional first if you suspect a roof rat infestation. Find out more about rodent treatment options.

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