Professional Rat Control In Gawsworth

Rats are medium-sized, long-tailed rodents belonging to the superfamily Muroidea. In the UK, two primary types of rats pose concerns: the Brown Rat and the Black Rat. Although these creatures are primarily nocturnal and not often seen, there are several signs of their presence that are relatively easy to identify.

How to Spot Signs of Rats:

Rat Droppings:

   Brown rat droppings are typically rectangular with blunt ends and are usually found in small groups. In contrast, black rat droppings are scattered and have a pointed, sausage-like shape. A single rat can produce around 40 droppings per day. If the droppings are moist and dark, it indicates that rats are nearby.

Scratching Noises:

   Black rats, also known as roof rats, are exceptional climbers and often invade roofs, rafters, and attics. Thus, scratching noises from these areas after dusk could indicate their presence. Brown rats, on the other hand, can be identified by grinding or chattering sounds as they move beneath decking and floorboards.

Footprints, Tail Swipes, and Smears:

 Rat footprints feature four toes on the front feet and five on the back. These tracks can be more easily seen in dusty or muddy areas, particularly when illuminated by a flashlight angled low. Additionally, rats leave dark grey smears on surfaces where they frequently rub against them. However, smears can persist over time and are not the best indicator of an active infestation.

Running Tracks:

   Rats tend to travel along the same established paths multiple times a day, leaving dark greasy marks along walls, floorboards, and worn-down areas in grass or low vegetation.

Burrows:

   Burrows are holes ranging from one to four inches wide, usually with smooth edges. Brown rats are adept at creating intricate tunnel systems, and their entrance holes (70-120mm in diameter) can be found in grassy banks, under tree roots, and at the edges of paving or drain covers.

Nests:

   Black rat nests are commonly found indoors, in lofts, attics, under floorboards, and in other dark, less-frequented spaces.

Gnawing:

   Gnaw marks can be observed on electrical cables, pipes, wooden fixtures, and plastic garbage cans. Rats typically leave large, rough teeth marks.

By being aware of these signs, you can identify and address potential rat infestations effectively.