Rats are interesting creatures. These rodents have been living alongside humans for centuries now and have grown to be somewhat dependent on us for survival. This relationship makes them rather tricky to avoid as they are some of the most common pests and one of the most invasive. Rats in Richmond aren’t just a nuisance. They can be a serious pest problem. Knowing how to get Richmond pest control for rats is essential for keeping them away.
How Can I Tell If It's Rats On My Property?
Rats in Richmond can sometimes be mistaken for mice as they look similar and cause similar problems. However, there are some differences between the two. First of all, rats are larger as they can reach around 15 inches long, while mice are only about four inches long. Secondly, rats have shorter, scalier tails while mice have long and furrier tails. Finally, rats have a more blunt face shape and smaller ears than mice, with pointier faces and big, fur-covered ears.
Along with seeing a rat scurrying around, you can also check for signs of rats around the property. These signs of rats include finding brown, rod-shaped droppings, seeing chew marks, and noticing a smell of ammonia.
How Dangerous Is It To Have Rats On My Property?
While rats might seem like they aren’t a big issue as they are considered a typical pest, they are one of the most dangerous pests. These rodents can spread various illnesses to humans, such as hantavirus, salmonellosis, and rat-bite fever. Some of these diseases, like hantavirus, can be spread through the droppings, urine, and feces rats leave behind as they run around a property. Also, rats can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks.
Rats are surprisingly destructive. They can chew through many materials, including drywall, plastic, plaster, pipes, wires, and more. They can destroy personal belongings as well as the structures of your home and yard.
How Do I Get Rid Of Rats On My Property Fast?
Rat control can be challenging to achieve alone because rats can reproduce quickly and are good at hiding. They can even fit through holes the size of a quarter. Luckily, there is help at hand. Our rat control experts at Allied Termite And Pest Control Of Greater Richmond can remove any existing rat infestations.
While it can be tempting to remove rats on your own, this is rarely effective. Rats are hard to remove, so you’ll likely just be wasting your time, energy, and money only to find they keep returning. Instead, let our residential or commercial pest control professionals in Richmond eradicate them.
How Do I Make My Property Less Attractive To Rats?
While having experts come out is the best way to eliminate pest infestations in Richmond, there are some things you can do on your own to deter them. Some of the best ways to discourage rats include removing access to food sources around the property. Ensure to clean up food and drink spills immediately and store pet food inside. Next, you should reduce moisture problems around the home by fixing leaky plumbing and using dehumidifiers.
For more help with rat prevention, contact Allied Termite And Pest Control Of Greater Richmond today.