Rats are a common problem in many homes, and they can be challenging to get rid of. You might have tried everything from the old-fashioned way of setting traps to using dangerous chemicals claiming to kill rats without a trace. But if you’re still having trouble with these pesky rodents, it might be because your home is attracting them! It’s good to know what might attract these pests and when you should seek the help of a rat exterminator. Here are five things in your home that might be attracting rats.
Food
Food is the main thing that attracts rats to take refuge in your property. These vile creatures will gnaw on anything, from rubber to wood and even lead. If you have any food items within their reach, expect them to make the most of this opportunity. Homeowners who habitually leave dirty dishes on the sink or food droppings on the floor can expect rats hanging around. The same applies if you don’t clean your pet food and pet waste. But don’t expect the roof rats to stay away just because you cleaned your house. They will still be drawn by leftover food smells that are stronger than ever after mixed with other odors in the air. To avoid hungry rats, you must try to keep your house tidy at all times and tightly seal your trash cans.
Water Supply
Another thing that attracts rats to people’s homes is that they can easily access water sources on your property. Rats are drawn to dirty dishes and leaky pipes, drains, and even sinkholes! This means if you have wet areas in your home that remain unaddressed, there is a huge chance that it might attract a rat. You can fix this by fixing all the faults in your drainage system. Get a plumber to help if you don’t know how to do it.
Shelter and Warmth
You may be surprised by this, but rats are actually afraid of the cold! They will look for a safe place to build their nests or find warmth in your house during wintertime. Rats will live in places under floorboards, behind the walls and inside your attic. They will also look for a dark corner where they can take cover from the sun or rain, so keep an eye out on areas left undisturbed by human activity. If you have rat problems in the house now, check any place with darkness as their hiding spot. Rats love to stay protected from the elements.
Burrows and Hideouts
Rats are social creatures, so they will often look for a burrow or hideout in your house to form communities with other rats. These places can be found outside the home, but the rodents also like to come inside if they have easy access. They might try digging into your house or through your basement. Furthermore, if you have too much clutter in your property, rats can use them as hideouts and even nesting areas. This will include old clothing, tools, and even furniture you no longer use. Try to keep your property clear of junk piles, and if you feel there’s too much to clean, call in the services of professional cleaners.
Plants and Soil
Indoor plants and vegetation in your yard also attract rats. Did you know that rats can dig and burrow through the soil? They will use this to create tunnels where they run back and forth. You may have noticed these activities around your foundation or even in your garden, but if you don’t take care of them, it’s only a matter of time before they start making their way into your house. If you have a lot of plants in your garden, remove them before it’s too late! Get a landscaper to keep your yard organized by pruning down overgrown vegetation.
Why is it hard to control rats?
It is hard to control rats because they multiply pretty fast. A female rat can have up to 12 litters of babies in a year. The average number is around six per litter, with the total number of rats at over 100 by the end of summer! This means if you don’t control them, they will soon become unmanageable. Rats are also very intelligent and adaptable. If their habitat changes or food source dwindles, they can easily find another place to live, even in the city where humans develop homes.
Should I get a rat exterminator?
If you’ve tried in vain at rat-proofing your home, it might be time to call in the services of a professional rat exterminator. They can handle any rat problems you have much better and know what poisons to use without hurting your pets or small children. The professionals will also thoroughly inspect the property before they apply their poison so that it’s not as harmful as possible for everyone who lives there! It is also a good idea if you want to take care of the problem more permanently.
How much will a rat exterminator cost me?
The cost of a rat exterminator will depend on the extent of your infestation.
Contact Us Now!
At Anteater Pest Control, we can handle all your rat problems. We have been in business for over 20 years, so rest easy knowing you are working with the best! Our pest control in Phoenix specialists will provide you with personalized, friendly service. We realize that your home is your greatest possession, and we will treat it and protect it- guaranteed! As a family-owned and operated business, our exterminators in Arizona truly understand the impact that a friendly professional can make. We make it our business to serve your family, and your home, the way we’d treat our own. Call us or visit our website for more information.