Date Posted: January 24, 2022
Category: Rats
Rats in Southern Maine might not seem all that scary, but they are actually some of the most dangerous pests around. Rats are known for being both dangerous and destructive, so knowing how to identify rats and prevent them is key to keeping your Southern Maine property safe.
Rats are also some of the most common species in the area. Along with mice, they have become dependent on humans for their own survival. They need our buildings for shelter and close proximity to food and water sources we provide. They have grown very skilled at adapting to live alongside us in various conditions.
What Do Rats Look Like?
There are two main rat species in the country. These are roof rats, sometimes known as black rats, and Norway rats, sometimes known as brown rats. Roof rats are slightly smaller and dark brown to black, while Norway rats are brownish-grey. Roof rats are known for their climbing abilities, while Norway rats are great swimmers.
Both varieties can be distinguished from mice because they are quite a bit larger. They also have blunter muzzles and shorter, scalier tails than mice do.
Problems Rats Cause
The first main issue with rats is that they can destroy property. They have the need to chew on items constantly in order to keep their teeth from getting too long, and they will gnaw through drywall, pipes, wires, wood, clothing, and much more. Over time, they can destroy both structural elements of your property and personal belongings. They also get into and contaminate many food sources.
This leads us to the next problem with rats. They are known for causing many health problems. They can transmit pathogens that cause salmonella, rat-bite fever, and more, and if they do get into your food, anything they touch will need to be thrown out. There’s also the fact that even the fur, urine, and droppings rats leave behind can make you sick and cause respiratory problems.
How To Prevent Rats In Southern Maine
The best way to address rat problems is with commercial or residential pest control services, but you can also take some measures on your own to keep them out. Some of the best rat prevention steps include:
- Clean up kitchens often. Make sure to do dirty dishes and wipe up spills the right way.
- Practice good trash habits. Get lids for all garbage cans and take out the trash regularly.
- Make it more difficult for rats to get indoors by covering vent and chimney openings with metal mesh and other products that rats can’t chew through.
- Seal up holes in the walls and foundation with steel wool or other strong materials. Keep in mind that rats can fit through holes as small as a quarter.
- Reach out to rodent control experts in Southern Maine.
The Simplest Way To Handle Rats
If you’ve noticed rats around your property already, the best way to eradicate them is with assistance from Big Blue Bug Solutions. Rats are invasive, prolific, and dangerous, so trying to remove them on your own can pose risks and is usually ineffective.
Instead, give our rodent control experts a call right away. We can tell you more about resident pest control plans or set up an inspection at a time that works for you.
