Norway Rat Control

Norway Rat Control, Trapping & Removal Services

We can rid you of Norway Rat problems safely and efficiently

Norway rats, rattus norvegicus, first came to North America around 1775 on ships from Europe and today live throughout the continental United States. In nature, these rats help plants grow by scattering seeds and creating burrows that aerate the soil. However, the pests are harmful to structures, crops, personal property, and residents when they decide to move into homes and yards.

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APPEARANCE

Although Norway rats are nocturnal, they may emerge and be spotted during the day if the infestation is large enough. They have coarse fur that is brown, reddish, or gray on their heads and backs, and whitish gray on their bellies. Norway rats are the largest rat species typically seen in U.S. homes, reaching lengths of about seven to ten inches. Though often confused with sleek, agile roof rats, these pests are more full-bodied with blunter snouts.

DIET

Almost any type of food appeals to Norway rats. Their natural diet includes plants, seeds, insects, and small animals. In homes, the pests raid pantries and garbage cans for grains, meat, fish, nuts, and fruit. Although they will eat carrion and rotting food, they prefer fresh items.

HABITAT

Marshes or fields near ponds and streams are the preferred natural habitats of Norway rats. However, the presence of more abundant shelter, food, and water often draws the pests into homes, yards, canals, barns, and sewers. Norway rats prefer to live in urban environments at low elevations and tend to stick to the ground floors, cellars, or basements of buildings.

TREATMENT SOLUTIONS

ENTRY INTO HOMES OR BUSINESSES

Norway rats have a strong sense of smell, which often leads them to homes and gardens looking for easy meals. To enter buildings, they can squeeze through holes 1/2 inch or larger in diameter. They may also burrow under or enlarge existing cracks in doors, window sills, walls, ceilings, and floors.

PROBLEMS & DAMAGE

Some estimates put yearly losses caused by Norway rats in the U.S. at $500 million to $1 billion. The pests burrow under buildings, which make the foundations unstable. They also gnaw on electrical wires and water pipes, as well as rip up insulation in walls and attics. In addition, the pests consume and contaminate human and pet food. Eating contaminated food or coming into contact with Norway rats or their waste can transmit diseases such as typhus, leptospirosis, trichinosis, food poisoning, and rat bite fever to humans and pets.

PREVENTION & EXCLUSION

To avoid letting Norway rats indoors, seal all holes large enough for the pests to enter. Use heavy materials that can resist their sharp teeth, like concrete mortar, galvanized sheet metal, and hardware cloth. Keep the home clean, and properly store pantry items, pet food, and garbage. Use metal containers with tight-fitting lids for the storage of food and trash. Regular removal of tall weeds and grasses around structures may also deter Norway rats by eliminating possible hiding places.

TRAPPING & REMOVAL

While simple prevention methods may work in the short term, rats travel in large numbers and are quick to overcome obstacles. The pests grow used to audible scare tactics quickly, although loud noises may drive them away temporarily. Rats also become resistant to repellants and toxins. Traps are the most effective method of dealing with Norway rats. However, knowing how to properly select, place, and bait a trap can mean the difference between successful removal and continued problems. For best results, call the pest control specialists at Trutech, who possess the training and equipment needed to take care of Norway rat infestations.