Rats In Richmond: A Handy Guide For Homeowners

Rats present a number of problems for homeowners. They can cause property damage, spread various illnesses, and infect food. Rats are most common during the colder months of the year, but it’s important always to be alert for the presence of these pests.

 In this article, we’ll talk about some of the essential principles of rat control in Richmond. We’ll start by talking about the two most common types of rats found in the area. Then we’ll go over some of the ways that rats in Richmond get into homes. Next, we’ll help you understand how to identify the signs of a possible rat problem. Finally, we’ll discuss why do-it-yourself rat control is a bad idea. Our experts at Mitchell’s Pest Control can help you get rid of these pests safely. 

The Rats That Call Richmond Home 

Two types of rats are commonly found in Richmond homes. These two types are the Norway rat and the roof rat. Norway rats, also known as sewer rats, have bristly brown fur with scattered black hairs. Their undersides are usually a shade of white, gray, or yellow. They have small eyes and ears, and their noses are blunt. Their tails are generally shorter than the rest of their bodies. Roof rats, also called ship rats, are typically smaller and lighter than Norway rats. Their fur is also brown with black mixed in, though it is smoother than Norway rats' fur. They have large eyes and ears, and their noses are pointed rather than blunt. Their tails are longer than the rest of their bodies. Before we talk about how to get rid of rats, let’s discuss how rats can get into your home. 

How Rats Make Their Way Into Richmond Homes 

Rats are clever creatures. Roof rats can squeeze through any opening larger than a nickel, and Norway rats can gnaw through plastic, wood, and even metal to reach a food or water source. Roof rats are also excellent climbers, as their name suggests. They can get into the upper areas of your home through pipes, vents, or holes. Rats are creatures of habit; they are likely to return to the same place again and again if they find a food source or shelter they like. So how do you know if your home has a rat problem? 

Five Warning Signs Your Home Has A Rat Problem 

If you’re paying close attention, you should be able to identify signs of rats in your house before they become too much of an issue. Here are a few things to keep an eye out for: 

1. Live or deceased rats in your home

2. Rat droppings, especially near holes in walls

3. Damaged dry goods

4. Gnaw marks or grease stains

5. Scratching or running noises in the walls or attic 

Staying alert for these indicators of a rat infestation will help you recognize the threat and respond properly. Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking they can handle a rat problem on their own, but this isn’t a good idea. Let’s talk about why. 

Why DIY Rat Control Isn’t Recommended 

As mentioned, rats are persistent creatures. They will keep returning to the same place if they aren’t prevented from accessing it. Attempting to deal with them yourself is a recipe for disaster. Rats carry a number of diseases, including rat-bite fever, salmonellosis, trichinosis, jaundice, and bubonic plague. Professional pest control companies like Mitchell’s Pest Control offer the best and safest rat extermination. We’ll help you get rid of these pests quickly without endangering yourself or your family. Call Mitchell’s Pest Control today for a free consultation.