Types of Rat Species in Weirsdale, FL; How to Prevent & Get Rid of Roof, Norway & Wood Rats
Rats are common in Florida. Rodents are never a welcome guest, unless they are domesticated pets maybe. But wild rodents are known to destroy structures and utility lines as well as spread diseases. Today, we at Pest 911 would like to briefly share the basics of the three common rats found in the area.
Where Do Roof Rats Live?
Roof rats are the most common type of rat found in south Florida. They prefer vegetarian diet but will eat nearly anything. Roof rats are so named because of their fondness for heights and frequently slipping inside homes from access along the roof. They have an incredible talent for climbing and traveling with ease in high places.
Roof Rats can range from 2 – 8 inches in length and feature longer tails and bigger eyes and ears. Their fur is usually black or dark brown in color that is smooth. When compared to Norway rats their bodies are usually smaller and sleeker. They tend to stick to attic spaces and are identifiable by the grease marks they leave behind.
The Norway Rat: Norway rats are omnivores, eating anything they can find from grains to meats. Norway rats tend to burrow, sticking crawl spaces and basements. These rats have incredible gnawing capabilities and can chew through plastic, even lead piping to get to water. Being more social they live close to each other and participate in daily activities together.
Why are Norway Rats a Problem?
Norway Rats can reach up to 16 inches in length. Their coarse, shaggy fur is brown or grey in color with scattered black hairs and their tails and ears are covered in scales. Roof rats and Norway rats are usually easy to discern the difference between. Norway rats are a problem for several reasons. Norway rats contaminate food, cause property damage as well as spread dangerous diseases.
What Does a Wood Rat Nest Look Like?
Wood rats, also known as pack rats and these rats are not as common as the Norway rat and roof rat in Florida, but still worth noting. They are typically more concentrated in northern areas of Florida. Not only do they have similar annoyances of the other rats, but pack rats are known for theft, stealing small items and squirreling them away in their nest, hence their nick name “Pack Rats”. Their nests are composed of twigs, sticks, debris as well as the small shiny items that they like to steal. Wood rats are approximately 7 inches in length. Their distinction is having a hamster-like look with long, soft, fine fur and furry tails. Their coloring ranges from black to gray, and variations of brown.
Are Rats Harmful or Dangerous?
No matter which rat might have infiltrated your home or business, they can be a detriment. They cause extensive damage that costs thousands to repair. Rats are known to gnaw through drywall, insulation, wiring and pipes in an effort to forage for food, water and nesting materials. In addition to the damage they cause, rats are known vectors of numerous diseases and can potentially carry fleas and distribute the fleas in your home along with the diseases the fleas may have.
Rodent Control
When you have rodents in your Florida or home or business, you need the expertise of Pest 911 to thoroughly eliminate the infestation. The sooner the better before they have an opportunity to destroy and spread ailments. Call us today for rodent control services.
