Got Rats?

If you suspect rats in your attic, here are some effective ways to check for signs of an infestation:

1. Listen for Noises
🔹 Scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds at night, especially in the attic or walls.
🔹 Rats are nocturnal, so you’re more likely to hear them after dark.
2. Look for Droppings
🔹 Small, dark, pellet-shaped droppings around insulation and entry points.
🔹 Fresh droppings are soft and dark, while old ones turn gray and crumbly.
3. Check for Gnaw Marks
🔹 Rats constantly chew to keep their teeth sharp. Look for bite marks on wood, wires or plastic items.
🔹 Damaged wiring can be a fire hazard!
4. Inspect for Grease Marks & Smudges
🔹 Rats leave greasy trails along walls, pipes, and beams from their fur rubbing against surfaces.
5. Sniff for a Musty Odor
🔹 A strong, musky urine smell can indicate a rat infestation, especially in enclosed spaces.
6. Look for Nests
🔹 Rats build nests using shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden areas.
🔹 Check dark corners and undisturbed spaces in your attic.
7. Test with Mandarins or Orange Slice Candy
🔹 Place a very small amount these items in the attic overnight.
🔹 If they are gone in the morning, chances are good that rats are present.
8. Watch for Entry Points
🔹 Rats can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter!
🔹 Check for gaps around vents, rooflines, and pipes.

To know for sure if you have rats, call a local exterminator to confirm their presence.