Signs You Have a Norway Rat Infestation

As a homeowner, protecting your family and property from potential harm is always a top priority. One of the most common pests that invade homes is the Norway Rat. These rodents are notorious for causing damage to homes, contaminating food sources, and spreading diseases. It is essential to recognize the signs of a Norway rat infestation so you can take necessary steps to eliminate them from your property. In this blog post, we will explore the signs you have a Norway rat infestation and how you can eradicate them.

Seeing the Rats

The most obvious sign you have a Norway rat infestation is actually seeing the rats in and around your home. Norway rats are typically larger than other rat species, and they have coarse brown fur. They are known for their burrowing habits and will often create nests in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. If you see rats running across your yard or within your home, it’s time to call pest control.

Droppings

If you don’t see the rats themselves, another common sign of a Norway rat infestation is their droppings. Their feces are typically pointed at one end and blunt at the other. You may find them around your food storage areas, near walls or in eaves, and in the corners of your home. Be careful when cleaning up droppings, as they can carry diseases harmful to humans.

Gnaw Marks

Norway rats have to constantly gnaw to keep their incisors sharp. Therefore, evidence of gnaw marks can also be a sign of a rat infestation. Check for bite marks on wooden surfaces, wires, and plastic containers. If you have experienced damage to the wiring of your home, it is also possible that the rats are the cause of it.

Strange Noises

Rats are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night. Hearing strange noises, such as scratching, scurrying, or rustling, in your walls or attic during the night can be another sign of a Norway rat infestation. Rats can also create a lot of noise while burrowing, which can be heard during the day as well.

Damage to Food Sources

Norway rats will eat anything from grains to meat. If you notice that boxes of food or bags have been gnawed or torn, it could be a sign of a rat infestation that is targeting your food sources. Norway rats like to store food near their nests, so it also worth checking in and around storage areas for signs of food hoarding.

If you notice any of the above signs, it is important to contact a professional pest control specialist immediately. Norway rats can cause an immense amount of damage to your home and can spread harmful diseases to your family. Taking steps to prevent a rat infestation is crucial to keeping your home and family safe. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to Norway rats, so make sure to keep your home clean, store food properly, and seal any potential entry points to avoid them from ever coming back.