Norway Rat Identification & Prevention

What are Norway rats?

Norway rats are large, gray rodents that grow to about sixteen inches long from nose to tail and can weigh between 12 and 16 ounces. Norway rats prefer grains, seeds, and insects as food sources but will eat almost anything. Norway rats are highly dependent on water to survive. Despite their comparatively large size, Norway rats can squeeze into holes as small as 1/2 inch in diameter. Norway rats have very powerful front incisors that allow them to chew through even the toughest materials. 

Are Norway rats dangerous?

Historically, Norway rats are one of the most deadly pests of all time – being the rat that indirectly led to millions of deaths by the Bubonic Plague. Today, though the plague is no longer a risk in the United States, Norway rats continue to carry and spread many diseases in their urine, feces, and saliva. Rat infestations can also lead to infestations from fleas, ticks, and mites that were riding on the rat’s back.

Why do I have a Norway rat problem?

Norway rats are nocturnal and inconspicuous, so you probably won’t see one with your naked eye. A common indicator that you have Norway rats is the presence of damage in specific places around your home. Look for signs of gnawing around pipes, flooring, electrical wiring, and drywall. Likewise, check for signs of burrowing under sidewalks, decks, garages, sheds, and foundations near your home. If you’ve started finding holes in your clothing or furniture or small droppings in your closet or pantry, it’s likely you’ve got a rodent problem.

Where will I find Norway rats?

Most people with rat problems don’t find rats; rather, they find evidence that they’ve been there, including fecal droppings and gnawed holes. Common areas of activity for Norway rats include kitchens, pantries, bathrooms, attics, and basements.

How do I get rid of Norway rats?

Rodents can be dangerous to try to treat alone; even worse, many DIY treatments can fail to treat the whole infestation, or make way for other hazards stemming from the presence of droppings, dead rats, or other biological materials still left in the house.

If you want your rodent problem fixed quickly, effectively, and safely, trust the local pest professionals at Termishield for help. Our team of rodent exclusion experts will be able to identify your rodent problem, trace it to its source, and eliminate it in its entirety. Don’t put your family at risk for one more minute; request your free pest inspection today!

How can I prevent Norway rats in the future?

In addition to our residential pest control and commercial pest control services, here are some Norway rat prevention tips:

• Keep shrubs, vines, and tree limbs trimmed away so rodents can't use them to reach the roof.

• Organize storage areas to prevent clutter that can attract rodents.

• Install mesh screens on attic, crawl space, and dryer vents.

• Seal utility openings with sealant or pipe collars.

• Keep all trash stored in sealed containers.

• Clean up any spilled food or drink items immediately.

• Seal all gaps around the house more than 1/2 inch in diameter.

• Place food, pet food, and birdseed inside rodent-proof containers.

• Keep lumber, firewood, bricks, pipes or other debris stored far away from the home’s foundation.