Professional Rat Control In Smithy Green

Rats are medium-sized, long-tailed rodents belonging to the superfamily Muroidea. In the UK, the two main types of rats of concern are the Brown Rat and the Black Rat. Although people usually do not see the actual rats since they are primarily active at night, there are several signs that indicate their presence.

How to Spot Signs of Rats:

1. Rat Droppings – Brown rat droppings are typically rectangular with blunt ends and can be found in small groups. In contrast, black rat droppings are pointed and sausage-shaped, usually scattered. A single rat can leave around 40 droppings per day. If the droppings are moist and dark, it is a strong indication that rats are nearby.

2. Scratching Noises – Black rats, also known as roof rats, are excellent climbers and often invade roofs, rafters, and attics. Scratching noises from these areas after dusk may suggest their presence. Brown rats are more likely to produce grinding or chattering sounds as they move beneath decking and floorboards.

3. Footprints, Tail Swipes, and Smears – The four-toed footprints of rats can be identified alongside their five-toed back footprints and tail marks, most visible in muddy or dusty areas. Using a solid flashlight aimed at a low angle can help spot these tracks. Rats also leave dark grey smears on surfaces where they frequently rub their fur. However, since smears can linger for some time, they may not be reliable indicators of an active infestation.

4. Running Tracks – Rats tend to follow the same routes repeatedly throughout the day, leaving dark greasy marks along walls, floorboards, and worn paths in grass or low vegetation.

5. Burrows – Burrows are holes that can range from one to four inches wide and have smooth edges. Brown rats are skilled at digging complex tunnel systems, and their entrance holes, which measure 70-120mm in diameter, can be identified in grassy banks, under tree roots, and at the edges of paving or around drain covers.

6. Nests – Black rat nests are typically found indoors, especially in lofts, attics, under floorboards, and in other dark, less-used areas.

7. Gnawing – Gnaw marks can be observed on electrical cables, pipework, wooden fixtures, and plastic garbage cans. These marks are usually large and rough, indicating the presence of rats.