What Every Pleasanton Resident Should Know About Rats

The rats we see most often in Pleasanton are Norway rats, roof rats, and wood rats (also referred to as pack rats). Norway rats and wood rats are brown, and roof rats are typically black. Here are a few things you should know about each.

Roof Rats — These rats are common structural pests. When they get inside, they prefer to stay permanently. They are great climbers that typically get into homes by way of high entry points found on roofs or along rooflines. In your attic space, these rats will create nests that may look a little bit like bird nests. We don't typically see lots of rats when this is the species causing the problems because they often make noise in attic spaces. The more rats you have in your attic, the more noise they're going to make. This will alert you to the problem so you can do something about them.     

Norway Rats — These rats can become structural pests and invade your property in large numbers, but they have a preference for living in underground burrows. If you have a Norway rat problem, it may be that these rats have found a place to live in your yard and they are going in and out of your home. They might not be inside. Since they can establish themselves outside, it is easier for this species to create an army of rats that continually invade your home. They will do so by way of first-floor entry points.  

Pack Rats — These rats can become structural pests, but they're more likely to be found in sheds, garages, and outbuildings. Pack rats typically live alone unless they are mating, so you probably won't see an army of rats with this species. But, it is possible to have several of them plaguing you. If you find stacked branches, twigs, and leaves with collected trinkets inside, you're dealing with a pack rat issue. This species can get into your home through low or high entry points.   

One of the primary concerns with rat infestations is the spread of diseases. Here are just a few of the diseases that are known to be transmitted to humans by rats.

When rats get into your Pleasanton home, they will leave their excrement and urine in many places, this can cause contamination and damage your belongings. They can also damage your property by chewing on things. They chew on building materials, stored items, food packaging, wiring, and more.

If you're in Pleasanton, you're in our service area. Whether you're seeing one rat or lots of rats, our technicians can help you address your problem. Reach out to us today for immediate assistance with your rodent problem. We can help with our comprehensive rodent control options.