Winter weather eliminates many pests that can cause problems for Omaha homeowners. But other species become more likely to enter homes this time of year, searching for warmth, food, and water. Unfortunately, Norway rats are common winter intruders and can cause significant problems for your family.
This article will explain the signs of rats to keep an eye out for and review the risks of having them inside your house. We’ll also provide tips to help you avoid attracting rats and strategies to keep them from getting inside. Read on to learn more about rat control in Omaha with the pros from Quality Pest Control.
Signs Of Rats In The House: Identifying Rat Activity
Rats are social rodents that live in groups and breed rapidly, so it is best to take action immediately if you suspect they are infesting your house. The following list describes the signs of rats in Omaha to look for:
- Damage to food packages in cabinets or the pantry
- Capsule-shaped droppings with blunt ends
- Footprints in dusty areas with a drag mark from the tail between them
- Greasy rub marks along walls or around holes
- Teeth marks that are around 1/8 of an inch long
Although these rats are nocturnal and try to avoid contact with people, you may catch sight of one. Norway rats are 7 to 9 1/2 inches long, have stocky bodies with coarse brown hair and small eyes and ears, and may leave urine stains. If you see any signs or an actual rodent, contact us today at Quality Pest Control for assistance in eliminating them.
Norway Rat Dangers: Health Risks And Property Damage Explained
Rats endanger your family’s health, spreading diseases like rat-bite fever, jaundice, and tularemia. They contaminate your food and cooking surfaces with bacteria from their bodies and waste, leading to foodborne illnesses. As they dry, Norway rat droppings and urine contaminate the air in the house, causing year-round allergy symptoms and asthma attacks.
If the health problems alone aren’t bad enough, these pests can also be incredibly destructive, gnawing through lead pipes, walls, and cabinets. Rats inside the walls will also chew on wiring, creating a potential fire hazard. Contact us today at Quality Pest Control for help eliminating pests and protecting your family from future risks.
Call The Rat Control Experts: Ensuring Safe And Effective Elimination
Considering the high level of risk that comes with these rodents, it is crucial to eliminate them as quickly as possible. The experts at Quality Pest Control understand how to safely and effectively get rid of rats and keep them from getting inside again. Contact us today with any questions or to learn more about our rodent control services in Omaha.
Rat Prevention Tips: Eliminating Attractants And Sealing Entry Points
To successfully control rats, you must remove access to food and water sources and eliminate potential entryways into your home. These rats will eat almost anything and squeeze into tight spaces, so you must be thorough. Here are some rat prevention tips to start with:
- Store food in airtight containers (including pet food).
- Fix leaking pipes, ventilate damp areas, and eliminate standing water.
- Seals all gaps and holes on the house’s exterior larger than a quarter.
- Regularly take the trash out and store it in containers with secure lids.
- Keep firewood and debris piles at least 20 feet away from the house.
The experts at Quality Pest Control can devise a custom plan for rat removal and prevention. Contact us today to learn more about our services or schedule a consultation.