Have I Got Rats?

Have you noticed any unusual smells or strange noises around the house? Rats often enter homes in search of warmth, and it’s natural to want to remove them as quickly as possible once detected 

Signs of a Rat Problem 

Droppings: One of the main indicators of rats is the droppings they leave behind on their travel paths. These droppings are typically banana-shaped and measure between 10-20 mm. A single rat can leave up to 40 droppings daily. 

Rub Marks: Rats often leave greasy marks from their fur along common travel routes, such as skirting boards, floorboards, and walls. 

Gnawing Damage: To maintain their short incisors, rats constantly gnaw on various surfaces. You may notice gnawed areas, holes in floorboards or walls, and in some cases, even damage to soft metals like aluminium. 

Nests & Burrows: Brown rats live in burrows, creating nests by digging holes in the ground or on grassy embankments. They also use materials like cardboard and loft insulation, which they shred to build their nests. 

Areas to Check for Rats Around the Home 

While it's useful to know where rodents usually nest within a property, spotting one isn’t always easy. However, here are some clear signs that could point to the presence of a rodents in your home. 

Kitchens: Areas with accessible food, such as kitchens and pantries, are prime targets for rats. Signs include chewed food packaging, damaged cereal boxes, and missing or spilled food where rats have been feeding. 

Loft/Attic: Check for droppings and gnawed surfaces, as these are common signs of rats nesting. Rats prefer quiet, secluded areas, and dark, cluttered loft spaces provide an ideal environment for them to hide and breed. 

Walls/Ceilings: Rats often use cavity walls and ceilings as hidden travel routes. You might hear scurrying or heavy movements, especially at night when rats are most active. 

Think you have rat outdoors? 

A noticeable rise in rat activity is one of the clearest indicators of a nest nearby. If you start seeing more rats than usual around your property or gathering in certain areas of your garden, it's worth paying closer attention. Observing where the rats are going to and from can help you pinpoint the location of the nest. 

Shed: Inspect the shed for entry points, such as holes or burrows around the edges. Clutter inside sheds also creates an appealing habitat for rats. 

Garage/Outbuilding: Stored items, pet food, and grains commonly found in garages and outbuildings provide food sources for rats. Look for gnawed areas, spilled grains, or shredded materials used for nesting. 

Decking: Check your decking for signs of damage. Gnaw marks or burrows along the edges may indicate a rat infestation. 

Compost Bins: Compost is attractive to rats as both food and shelter. Ensure compost bins are tightly sealed with lids and prevent any overspill. 

Overgrown Shrubbery: Dense vegetation, like shrubs and bushes, offers ideal nesting or burrowing spots for rats. Be alert for holes or disturbed areas that may signal their presence. 

If you're seeing unusual activity around your home or business, it could be a sign of a nearby nest. While this can be disruptive, we’re here to help you quickly regain your peace of mind. 

Safety and care are our top priorities, and we take pride in protecting both the environment and local wildlife.