Norway rats, also known as brown rats, have a long history of living closely with people. This species is very adaptive and can thrive in a range of environments. They have a broad diet, which includes grains, fish, fruit, meats, and more. All of this means people can unintentionally attract Norway rats to their property and inviting them to infest.
Norway rats can be identified by their shaggy brown or gray fur, lighter underbelly, and dense body. This species has a blunt nose, small black eyes, and small ears. Their tail is long and hairless and is shorter than the length of their body.
As a Dallas resident, it is beneficial to understand what threat Norway rats pose in and around your home, how you can prevent them, and what you should do if they make their way inside your home.
Norway Rats & Disease, Destruction, And Parasites
There are multiple reasons why Norway rats are bad news in any home. They are destructive and dangerous, causing several health concerns. Here are the details you need to know about the problems this species can cause if they get into your home:
- Disease: These rodents can spread tularemia, salmonellosis, hantavirus, and more.
- Destruction: Rodent’s teeth never stop growing, which is why they are constantly chewing to keep them from overgrowing. They can chew through wood, plaster, furniture, insulation, pipes, and wiring. This can lead to fire and flood hazards as well as a weak home structure.
- Parasites: This species can carry fleas and ticks, spreading them to people and pets.
Norway Rats And Prevention
While preventing rodents is not always 100% effective, it is essential to implement preventative measures around your property to reduce the possibility of an infestation. As you can see above, rodents are no joke if they get into your home, which is why you should do the following:
- Norway rats, among other species, only need the size of a penny to squeeze through. You should inspect the exterior of your home for any potential entry points. Even if you find a crack or hole that seems too small, rodents can chew through it, making it larger and easier to get in.
- Any accessible food sources should be reduced and removed entirely if possible. This includes open containers, packaging that can be chewed through, fallen fruit and animal feeders in your yard, and garbage that can be accessed.
- Reducing moisture on your property is another vital prevention step. To do this, you should fix any leaking pipes and faucets, use dehumidifiers, and make sure your home has proper ventilation.
As stated above, prevention is not 100%, which is why you should call in professionals if you see signs of an infestation or need assistance with prevention.
Norway Rats And Professional Control
The most effective and safest way to handle a rat infestation is to contact professionals. Although you might be able to bait and trap a few rodents, you won’t be able to remove an entire infestation on your own. Plus, it can be dangerous to try and handle rodents and their droppings if you do not have experience.
If you live in Dallas, Texas, you should contact Dynasty Pest Control for rodent control and removal. With our 15 years of experience, you can expect exceptional pest control solutions 100% guaranteed. Give us a call today at Dynasty Pest Control to learn about our rodent control methods and see how we can assist you in eliminating them and minimizing their return.