Rats

Rat Control

Usually brown / grey-black in colour with a lighter underside, small ears and eyes. The Common Rat will weigh between 100g-500g with the average being 335g, their head and body are 200mm-270mm long with the tail being 150mm-200mm long.

Evidence of Rats to look for:

• Droppings, black in colour and the size of a raisin.
• Damage to timbers and wires.
• Nests, rats will often build nests under properties and in lofts.
• Smells, strong ammonia/musty like smells from the rats urine.
• Noises, rats can often be heard moving through wall, floor and ceiling cavities.

Brown Rats like to burrow two feet underground creating, 80mm holes. Found on farms, riverbanks and in urban areas the brown rat especially likes sewers, lofts and cellars. In town and city locations the brown rat will often take up residence under peoples houses, sheds and decking in their gardens.

Rats often enter the home through faulty drains, plumbing and vents.

It can be very alarming when a rat finds a way into a property. A female rat can have up to six litters a year, being more prolific breeders than rabbits. With mild winters the brown rat will breed throughout the year. Rats spread diseases such as Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis) and Salmonellosis both of which can be fatal. Rats also cause expensive damage by destroying the fabric of buildings with their strong teeth.

After the level of a rat infestation has been gauged and a risk assessment completed an appropriate treatment will be applied. Inside residential properties trapping is often a preferred option, compared to using baits because any carcasses can be removed to avoid smells in the property.

Rodent proofing and CCTV drain inspection services are also available.