Rats

The main type of rat in the UK is the brown rat. Rats are nocturnal and usually hide from humans. Signs of a rat problem:

• Scratching noises in calls or under the floor or in the attic as they move around.
• Rats leave dark, tapered droppings about 10 – 14 mm long.

• Rats have teeth that grow continuously and gnaw on wood and plastic to keep their teeth sharp.
• You may find nibbled food packaging with teeth marks
• Rats build nests in warm, hidden places using shredded material such as newspaper and fabric. 
• They also burrow, especially in the garden, in compost heaps, under sheds and garden decking.
• Striped bark from trees and plants.

WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE

They can measure up to 40cm in length, which includes the tail. The fur is generally dull brown, grey colour.

REPRODUCTION

• Rats live for about 9-18months
• They are sexually mature at 9-12 weeks
• They have on average 7 litters per year, with 8-10 babies in each litter.
• A single female rat could produce up to 70 young in a year
• Therefore its offspring can produce thousands of young in just one year.

IMPLICATIONS OF HAVING RATS

According to the National Pest Advisory Panel, based on scientific evidence and used as a guide for housing officers, the presence of rats around buildings poses an immediate risk of contracting Leptospirosis, also known as Weils Disease (pronounced Veils) which is a bacterial infection, transmitted by water which has been contaminated by animal urine. They also carry salmonella, rat-bite fever and typhoid.

HOW DO WE GET RID OF RATS

We will use a combination of traps and/or poisoned food bait stations, the bait stations are discreet and tamper resistant to protect children, household pets and other wildlife.

This is usually two treatment programme carried out over approximately 2-4 weeks. If required we can then advise on ongoing contracts or provide rat proofing to eradicate future infestations.