Rodents
Roof Rat
| Appearance |
|---|
 Black or brown, 7 to 10 inches long, with a long tail, large ears and eyes, and a pointed nose. Body is smaller and sleeker than Norway rat. Fur is smooth. |
| Habitat |
| Rats live in fields, wooded areas, vacant lots, farms, and a variety of human-populated environments. They nest inside and under buildings, or in piles of rubbish or wood. Roof rats, being excellent climbers, are often found in the upper parts of structures. |
| Diet |
|
Omnivorous, but they prefer grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
|
| Control |
| The best way to avoid rodent invasions is to eliminate harborage and seal holes and cracks on the exterior where rodents might enter. Remove piles of debris, stones, bricks, and other materials. Don’t let leaves accumulate near the foundation, as this provides attractive harborage for rodents. Install weatherstripping on the bottom of all doors to prevent rodents from entering. |
