A we know how important it is to keep your home or business free from any unwanted guests. Brown rats are one of the most common rodents found in urban areas and can cause serious damage to your property. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about these large rodents
Are brown rats dangerous?
Brown rats can be dangerous to humans and animals in certain situations. They are known carriers of various diseases and can spread them through their urine, droppings, and saliva. Some of the diseases associated with brown rats include leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonellosis. In addition to the spread of diseases, brown rats can also cause damage to property. They are known to gnaw on electrical wires, which can create a fire hazard. They can also damage insulation, walls, and furniture with their constant gnawing and burrowing.
What do brown rats eat?
Brown rats are omnivores and will eat just about anything they can find. They have a highly adaptable diet and can consume a wide variety of foods, including:
Grains and seeds: Brown rats will eat grains such as wheat, rice, and corn, as well as seeds such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
Fruits and vegetables: They will also eat fruits and vegetables such as apples, bananas, carrots, and lettuce.
Meat and fish: Brown rats are opportunistic feeders and will eat meat and fish if it's available. They may scavenge for scraps in garbage cans or feed on the remains of dead animals.
Insects: Brown rats will eat insects such as cockroaches and beetles.
Pet food: They will also eat pet food left out in open containers.
Because of their opportunistic feeding habits, brown rats are attracted to areas where food is easily accessible. This is why it's important to keep food sources sealed and stored away in secure containers to prevent infestations. Additionally, cleaning up spills and crumbs promptly can help reduce the likelihood of brown rats feeding on leftover food.
How fast can a brown rat infest a home?
The speed at which a brown rat infests a home can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the infestation, the availability of food and water sources, and the accessibility of shelter.
However, in general, brown rats are known for their rapid reproduction and can quickly establish large populations if left unchecked. Females can reproduce at a young age and produce up to six litters per year, with each litter containing up to 12 pups. This means that a single pair of brown rats can potentially produce up to 72 offspring in a year, which can quickly lead to a significant infestation. Additionally, brown rats are highly adaptable and can quickly find food and water sources within a home, such as unsecured garbage cans, pet food left out in open containers, and leaky pipes. They can also easily access shelter within walls, attics, and basements.
Therefore, it's important to take proactive measures to prevent brown rat infestations by sealing off potential entry points, removing sources of food and water, and regularly inspecting your home for signs of an infestation. If you do suspect a brown rat infestation, it's best to call a pest control professional to safely and effectively address the problem before becomes a larger issue.
What do i do if Brown rats are in my home?
If you have brown rats in your home, it's important to take swift action to prevent the infestation from becoming worse. As a professional pest control company named UrbanXterminator, we have extensive experience in dealing with brown rat infestations and have outlined the following steps for homeowners to take:
Identify the extent of the infestation: Look for signs of brown rat activity, such as droppings, chewed wires or wood, and gnaw marks. This will help you determine the extent of the infestation and where the rats are entering your home.
Seal off entry points: Close off all entry points through which brown rats can enter your home, such as cracks in the walls or foundation, gaps in doors and windows, and openings in the roof. Use sealants, steel wool, or wire mesh to block these entry points.
Remove food and water sources: Brown rats are attracted to food and water, so it's important to remove these sources to discourage their presence in your home. Keep all food in sealed containers, avoid leaving pet food out overnight, and fix any leaky pipes.
Set traps: Use snap traps or live traps to catch brown rats. Be sure to set traps in areas where you have observed activity and regularly check and dispose of any trapped rats.
Call a professional pest control company: If the infestation is severe, or if you're uncomfortable dealing with brown rats on your own, call a professional pest control company like UrbanXterminator. We have the experience, tools, and knowledge to safely and effectively eliminate brown rat infestations and prevent them from returning.
Remember, dealing with brown rats can be a daunting task, but taking swift action can help prevent the infestation from becoming worse. If you need assistance with brown rat control, don't hesitate to contact UrbanXterminator for help.