Rat Control
Rat Control Overview of Steps
Assessment:
- Identify the type of rat (Norway, Roof, etc.)
- Determine the extent of the infestation.
- Locate entry points, nesting areas, and potential food sources.
Population Reduction:
- Implement control methods like trapping (snap traps, live traps), baiting (with rodenticides, if used by a professional), or exclusion.
Exclusion:
- Seal all potential entry points into the building (cracks, holes, gaps around pipes).
- Remove attractive harborages (piles of debris, overgrown vegetation).
Monitoring:
- Regularly inspect for signs of continued rat activity (droppings, gnaw marks).
- Adjust control methods as needed based on observations.
Rat Control Costs
Getting rid of rats doesn’t have to gnaw at your finances. However, it does take time and materials. An assessment is important to determine what is going on, why, and what it takes to get rid of the problem.
Generally speaking, rodent baiting is the most cost-effective way to eliminate rats from an area. The cost for this is a trip charge and a fee to maintain the rodent station. Maintenance includes restocking bait, removing trash, picking up dead rats, replacing damaged stations and relocating them when appropriate. This needs to be done anywhere from monthly to quarterly depending on the type of property.
Give us a call so we can discuss your situation and give you an idea of the cost to provide a solution to your rat control needs.
Smarter Rat Control
Increasingly, technology plays a role in monitoring the performance of rat control measures. Some of the tools we use:
- Bell Labs IQ Stations: These rodent bait stations incorporate a sensor that tracks and logs rodent activity. We know how many rats are visiting the stations, at what times, and how often. This is a great tool for verifying that we have suppressed the rodent activity.
- A18 and A24 self-resetting traps: While not my primary tools, these smart traps can deliver multiple toxin-free kills while keeping track of activity. That makes them great for sensitive environments where rodent baiting isn’t the first choice.
- Cellular Cameras: These can be an excellent tool to monitor a situation and see what animals are involved. Rats are often not the only animal in attics, crawlspaces and other areas.
Rat Control Resources
Frequently Asked Rat Control Questions:
What are the most common types of rats in Houston?
The two most common types of rats found in the Houston area are the Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the Roof Rat (Rattus rattus).
How do I know if I have a rat infestation?
Signs of a rat infestation include:
- Gnaw marks: On walls, pipes, wires, and food packaging.
- Droppings: Small, dark droppings found in hidden areas like basements, attics, and cabinets.
- Tracks: Footprints or tail drags in dusty areas.
- Nests: Made of shredded paper, cloth, or insulation.
- Sightings: Actually seeing a rat.
- Noises: Scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings.
- rat droppings
What are the health risks associated with rat infestations?
Rats can carry and transmit serious diseases to humans, including:
- Salmonella: Can cause food poisoning.
- Plague: A potentially fatal bacterial infection.
- Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that affects the kidneys and liver.
What are the best methods to control a rat infestation?
The most effective methods of controlling a rat infestation often involve a combination of approaches:
- Trapping: Using snap traps or live traps to capture and remove rats.
- Baiting: Using professional-grade baits placed in tamper-resistant stations.
- Exclusion: Sealing off potential entry points into the building, such as cracks and holes in the foundation and walls.
- Sanitation: Maintaining good sanitation practices, such as proper food storage, regular garbage disposal, and keeping areas clean.
How can I prevent a rat infestation in the first place?
Preventing a rat infestation involves taking proactive measures:
- Seal entry points: Inspect the exterior of your property for cracks and holes and seal them with steel wool or cement.
- Proper food storage: Store food in airtight containers, and keep pet food in sealed bins.
- Garbage disposal: Keep garbage cans clean, tightly sealed, and away from the building.
- Yard maintenance: Trim trees and shrubs away from the building to eliminate hiding places.
- Regular inspections: Conduct regular inspections of your property for signs of rat activity.
How do I choose a rat control professional in Houston?
Choosing the right rat control company is essential for effectively and safely resolving your infestation. Consider these key factors:
- Experience: Look for a company with proven experience in handling rat infestations in the Houston area.
- Reputation: Read online reviews and testimonials from past customers.
- Licensing and Certification: Ensure the company and its technicians are properly licensed and certified by the Texas Department of Agriculture.
- Insurance and Warranty: Inquire about insurance coverage and any warranties offered for their services.
Ask these questions to potential companies:
- What methods do you use to control rat infestations?
- What are your prices and payment options?
- What is your warranty or guarantee on services?
How do I use rat poison safely?
Rat poison should only be used by licensed pest control professionals.
- Professional Placement: Baits should be placed in tamper-resistant stations to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or other animals.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of used bait stations and any dead rats according to local regulations.
Is it safe to use traps instead of poison?
Traps are generally considered a safer alternative to poison, as they pose minimal risk to non-target animals.
- Humane Methods: Snap traps and live traps can effectively capture rats without harming pets or wildlife.
How long does it take to get rid of a rat infestation?
The time required to eliminate a rat infestation varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the chosen control methods. It may take several weeks or even months to completely resolve the issue.
Contact Us Today!
Schedule your free inspection with our experienced Houston rat control experts.
Additional Rat Control Information and Resources
Texas A&M Agrilife – Urban Rats
