Mythbusters: Roof Rats Edition

We hear all kinds of things people believe about roof rats that simply aren't true. Ditch the myths and learn how to ditch the roof rats, too.

No one wants to think they have rats in their house, but many people have erroneous beliefs about rats that make it harder to keep them out. Learn the facts about roof rats and the best ways to keep them from infesting your home.

Myth 1: Roof Rats Only Live in Roofs and Attics

Roof rats, as their name suggests, do like areas such as roof eaves, attics, rafters, ceilings and wall gaps. They like to be elevated and hidden. In outdoor spaces, they tend to nest in trees, thick bushes or woodpiles.

While they do tend to access homes using their master climbing skills to enter through utility lines or overhanging branches, roof rats will nest anywhere that provides shelter and has access to food. Cupboards and cabinets are also especially appealing to rats.

Myth 2: Roof Rats Only Infest Dirty Homes

We hear this myth a lot. Like many other pests, rats are attracted to clutter, accessible trash and unsecured food. However, they will also move into clean homes, especially those that have draws like easy access points, open trash cans, or pet food that has been left out. Rats are also attracted to unkempt fruit trees, outside leaky faucets or hoses, and bird feeders. These will draw rats into your yard making it more likely for them to move inside.

Myth 3: Roof Rats Only Eat Cheese or Trash

Roof rats actually prefer to eat things like fruit (especially citrus), avocados, nuts, berries, and seeds. They'll also eat pretty much whatever else is available, like insects, garbage, grains, and even carrion. Their willingness to eat rotting food and trash add to the myth that they only infest dirty homes, but their most preferred foods can be found in most homes.

Myth 4: Rats are Seasonal Pests

Roof rats are active all year. While they may be more noticeable in the cooler months, as they are actively seeking food and shelter, they are also fully present in the warmer months. Summer months are used more for breeding and foraging outdoors where food is more abundant. Rats are also able to reproduce year-round, allowing for quickly increasing populations. Rats are, however, nocturnal. So while they aren't seasonal, they are most active at night.

Myth 5: Cats or Ultrasonic Repellents Work Best for Roof Rats

Cats and ultrasonic repellents are appealing because of their organic nature. Unfortunately, neither of these options are effective for rats.

It turns out that cats don't really do much to deter rats. While an individual battle will almost always end with a cat killing the rat if they want to, cats will often go for much easier prey. The presence of cats will usually make rats more apt to stay hidden more often, but not necessarily leave the premises. (ZME Science)

As for ultrasonic devices, these fail primarily because of how quickly rats are able to adapt to the noise frequencies. Even if they work for a short period of time, rats will soon get used to the sound and no longer be deterred by it. Another factor that makes ultrasonic ineffective is the waves being easily blocked or absorbed by other materials so ranges are often very small.

"Commercially available sonic pest devices for use in residential applications have not been shown to be effective in scientific studies. For this reason, use of these devices is not advised to treat common pest problems.." – University of Arizona Cooperative Extension

Keeping Roof Rats Out

Prevention is always better than treatment. Seal up entry points, such as cracks in siding, foundation, vents, and gaps around doors and windows. Trim low-hanging branches away from the house. Make sure that leaks are addressed immediately and that yards are kept tidy. If you have fruit trees or berry bushes, clean up any dropped fruit. Make sure outdoor trash cans are kept closed. If you have a grill, keep it clean.

Inside, keep your food sealed, your garbage cans closed, and trash taken out regularly. While keeping a tidy house alone won't be enough to keep rats out, it will help keep them from finding appealing nesting spots. Don't leave pet food out perpetually, and make sure counters and floors are cleaned.

If you find evidence of rats, such as droppings or gnaw marks, address it immediately. A professional pest control company can help you determine the best course of action for your circumstances.

We're here to help; call us any time!

For even more information on local Virginia pests, check out our pest library and other blog posts.