General Roof Rat Information

The adult Roof rat generally is between 12” to 16” long including tail length. Hair can be soft to the touch with color variations color from brown, black, to gray. The roof rat has a pointed muzzle, large ears and eyes. They deposit upwards of 25,000 droppings during a lifetime. Droppings are usually 1/4” cylinder shaped with pointed ends. Roof rats are prolific breeders having 4-6 litters annually with almost as many young born to each litter. Studies indicate in ideal conditions a male and female may be responsible for hundreds to thousands of offspring annually! Their intelligence, acrobatic skills and capable climbing abilities create ongoing concerns. Hollowed fruit is a good sign of their presence. Roof rats greasy bodies can leave a notable smudge mark darkened in appearance around their entry points..

To date and to our knowledge no illness or disease has been linked to roof rats.

Roof Rat Behavior

Roof rats are known for damaging and destroying materials by gnawing, urinating or defecating on product. Roof rats can cause damage to sensitive components such as computers, alarm systems, telephone and electrical wiring. Roof rats have caused fires, alarm system malfunctions and costly loss. They can enter gaps that are as small as a dime to a quarter.

The Roof rat is nocturnal and usually won’t readily approach new objects introduced into their living areas. The Roof rats nesting preference is the upper parts of trees, attics and structures. They are commonly found in woodpiles, oleanders, under sheds, BBQ grills, behind refrigerators and dishwashers. Roof rats establish harborage areas. They tend to follow the same route to their food and or water source keeping their paths clear of debris. Roof rats require 1 ounce of water daily. Most notable calls come from people trying to sleep at night while listening to the scratching, gnawing and running noise! Pounding on ceiling only provides temporary relief.

Roof rats will feed on practically anything, but prefer seeds, nuts, fruits and berries when in season. Roof rats are always attracted to citrus trees. They will enjoy a banana if available as well. Proper landscape maintenance, exterior storage standards and trash closures are of importance.

Corrective Procedures for Roof Rat

The control of rodents can be challenging based on several factors. The building age, construction and neighborhood can lend to roof rat issues. Our service protocol steps included covering holes, filling cracks, voids, holes and screening pipes/vents. Exterior baiting and interior trapping are typical. Arizona Pest Prevention specializes in “buttoning up” structures. We have significant experience in educating, preventing or correcting roof rat invaded structures. Hundreds referred, Hundreds secured!

Homeowners wishing to do this work on their own can! Call us for guidance or see www.roofrat.net for additional information.