Rat Control
Norway and roof rats are aggressive, destructive, and carry serious diseases. Rat sightings in Hudson Valley, NY are on the rise, especially near restaurants and dense neighborhoods.
Identification
Norway rats: 7–10 inches body, brown, blunt nose, ground-nesting. Roof rats: 6–8 inches, slender, black-brown, long tail, excellent climbers.
Biology
Sexually mature at 3 months; 4–6 litters/year of 6–12 pups. Live 1–2 years in the wild.
Behavior
Norway rats burrow along foundations and under decks; roof rats prefer attics, trees, and utility lines. Both are neophobic — new objects are avoided for days.
Health Risks
Leptospirosis, salmonellosis, hantavirus, rat-bite fever, and severe asthma triggers.
Property Damage
Extensive gnawing on wiring, PVC, wood; burrows undermine slabs and walkways; contamination of insulation.
Signs You Have a Problem
- Large droppings (3/4 inch)
- Burrows near foundation
- Gnaw marks on wood and pipes
- Grease trails on walls or joists
- Overturned trash bins
Our Inspection Process
Our licensed technicians perform a thorough interior and exterior inspection to confirm rats activity, identify harborage, moisture, and food sources, and map entry points. Findings are documented with photos and a written treatment plan tailored to your Hudson Valley, NY home.
Treatment Process
Tamper-resistant exterior bait stations, T-Rex snap traps in interior/attic voids, burrow treatment, exclusion of all 1/2-inch-plus gaps, and follow-up until zero activity.
Integrated Pest Management
Urbanxterminator uses Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for rats: inspection, monitoring, sanitation guidance, mechanical exclusion, targeted low-impact products, and follow-up verification. We prioritize methods that are effective for you and your family while minimizing environmental impact.
Prevention Tips
- Secure trash in rodent-proof bins
- Remove standing water
- Trim tree branches at least 4 feet from the roofline
- Seal any gap larger than 1/2 inch
- Eliminate clutter and woodpiles near the house