Along with mice, rats are among the most common rodents in Jasper that create problems for property owners in this region. Rats are very opportunistic scavengers that will travel indoors in search of food and shelter, spreading germs and damaging property. When outdoors, rats often live in burrows beneath the ground and feed on scraps of virtually any type of food.
What Is The Difference Between Rats & Mice
Rats are significantly larger compared to mice, often approaching a foot in length. Their heads are long and have pointed ears and their tails are typically shorter than the overall body. Rats can climb within walls, ventilation shafts, and other dark and tight spaces.
As they move, rats leave trails of droppings that are u-shaped and curl upwards. As with most rodents, rats are largely nocturnal and tend to be most active after dark, sometimes heard rummaging. When rats are present during the daytime, it may be an indication of a larger infestation.
The Dangers Associated With Rats
Rats are known to carry salmonellosis, leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, and many other harmful problems that pose a potential risk to human health and pets. Because of their overgrown front teeth, rats are constantly chewing on things such as wiring, which could become a potential fire hazard, and other things found in a home. Their accumulation of urine and feces can begin to cause a tremendous odor as well.
Tips For Preventing Rat Intrusions
- Property owners should closely examine the exterior of the home for any potential points of access for rats and other rodents. Use a durable caulk or sealant to fill holes, and place screens over exterior vents. Keep in mind that some species are excellent climbers that can gain entry from upper areas of the premises.
- Limit access to any food sources by placing leftovers in durable sealed containers, promptly cleaning up spills, and preventing access to dry food storage areas.
- Trash cans containing food scraps should have a tight lid, particularly in kitchens and exterior garbage areas.
- Remove unnecessary clutter and debris from the yard area adjacent to the home that could provide shelter.
- Promptly remove uneaten pet food, and clean up scattered seed from bird feeders.
Why Contact A Pest Extermination Professional?
Some property owners underestimate the potential severity of invasions by rats, and other unwanted rodents. Others mistakenly obtain do-it-yourself home treatment options sold by online retailers, and in local stores. Many of these products, including traps, baiting stations, and granular formulas, fail to perform to the level expressed within their embellished marketing claims. The reality is that many of these mass-marketed solutions provide only short-term benefits, and may contain harmful chemicals.
The best way to respond to signs of rodent intrusion is to contact a seasoned pest control professional that has the knowledge and tools necessary to get the job done. They can provide a thorough interior and exterior property inspection to assess the problem, and present you with the best Jasper rodent control options.
Licensed Pest Control Company In Jasper
The experts with Action Pest Control have spent many years assisting residential and commercial property owners with pest-related concerns in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. We take pride in offering the highest-quality customer service and support that has earned us an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and has established us one of the industry leaders in this region. Also, after eradicating pests, our technicians will identify potential vulnerabilities that could create future intrusions.
Action Pest Control uses many of the latest products and rodent treatment methods for banishing problems with termites, bed bugs, mosquitoes, rodents, and many other bothersome pests. We also adhere to the best practices for ensuring safety among our customers, and the local Jasper environment. Contact our office today for a no-obligation estimate and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Jasper.