Rats are considered to be one of the most widespread British mammals, and usually live for around 18 months in the wild. Although typically nocturnal creatures, rats will forage for food in the day.
Where do they live?
Rats are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of rural and urban habitats, although usually near human habituation. In homes, they will reside in loft spaces, wall cavities, cellars or under floorboards. Outside, they will burrow into grassy banks or compost heaps, or even underneath sheds. Rats live in colonies, consisting of either a mated pair or one male and several females. They will breed throughout the year, producing on average eight young per litter. Rats are distinguished from mice by their size: rats generally have bodies longer than 12cm (5 inches).
Do rats cause any real harm?
Most of the damage caused by a rat infestation will be by gnawing and ripping at food stuffs and belongings. Rats have also been known to gnaw through electric cables and can therefore pose a fire risk to your property.
How do I know if I have an infestation?
- footprints or tail swipes in muddy areas or dusty surfaces
- runs – rats follow the same routes when travelling and therefore leave trails
- gnaw marks on any food or non-food material
- sightings of live or dead rats
- presence of burrows or nests, or rat droppings
- unusual stale odours indoors.
Call Masons Pest Control now for free advice on rats, or to book a qualified pest control technician to deal with your rat problem quickly and safely.
