What do you know about roof rats in Greensboro? Do you think you could pick out a roof rat in a lineup of rodents? You'd probably have no trouble telling the difference between a beaver and a roof rat. While a beaver is a rodent, it doesn't look anything like a rat. But, if we put a Norway rat and a roof rat in front of you, could you tell them apart? Do you know that roof rats are smaller than Norway rats? Do you know that roof rats are typically black and Norway rats are typically brown? We hope so.
It is important to be able to tell these two rats from each other because they have different habits and habitat preferences. Norway rats are burrowing rats that will probably live in the ground outside of your home and enter your home through low entry points. Roof rats prefer to live in trees and other high places. They're great climbers and they will have no problem getting into your attic spaces and living with you permanently. Here's what you need to do to get control of roof rats in Greensboro.
Roof Rats & Your Roof
These rodents have earned their name. They commonly get onto roofs. If you want any hope of keeping rodents out of your Greensboro home, you need to understand how they get up there.
Tree Limbs
If you have trees near your home, a roof rat may use tree limbs to get onto your roof and exploit vulnerabilities up there. Trim tree branches away from your roofline to prevent them.
Downspouts
Roof rats can work their way up through your downspouts and gain access to your roof. You can put wire mesh in your downspouts to stop them.
Wires
Roof rats can run along phone and electric wires from nearby poles. If this is how they're getting to your roof, you may be able to stop them by putting something pointy on the wire to deter them. This won't harm them. They'll know to steer clear of something that can poke them. Roof rats are smart.
Walls
Roof rats are expert climbers. Given the right surface, they may be able to scale your exterior walls. There isn't a lot you can do about this. But take comfort in knowing that your roof overhangs could prevent them from getting up onto your roof. The concern is when there is a roof soffit intersection. If your home has one or more roof soffit intersections, inspect them for entry holes. Make repairs, and consider applying metal flashing to prevent further entry.
Roof Rats & Your Yard
Before these rats try to get into your home, they come into your yard. There are many things that can attract a roof rat. Use these tips to deter them.
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The scent of garbage can lure a roof rat from an impressive distance. Keep trash receptacles clean and free of odors.
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Make sure that your trash is bagged and stored in covered containers. It may seem odd to worry about covering trash to keep rats out, but you would be amazed at how these rats can climb and jump their way into trash receptacles.
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Address moisture issues around your home. Moisture attracts bugs and roof rats eat bugs. You can also get control of bugs by investing in a residential pest control program.
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Roof rats need a drink of water. If you have puddles or containers that capture rainwater, you'll lure these rodents to your yard - along with many other pests.
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If you have a dog, your pet's droppings can attract roof rats. While animal feces is not a preferred food source, urban roof rats often take to eating it when food sources are limited.
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Gardens, fruit trees, and berry bushes are an obvious attractant. These are difficult to protect. Our advice is to plant them far from your exterior walls if they haven't already been planted. In some cases, fence structures can be erected to keep rodents out. Just keep in mind that a roof rat can easily climb over a fence. You'll need to have fencing as a roof as well.
Professional Control
When roof rats are a particular problem, or when they get into your home, it is time to call in a professional. Remember that the team at Go-Forth Pest Control is always standing by to assist you with your rodent control needs. Reach out to us today for immediate assistance.
