Roof Rat

Latin Name: Rattus Rattus

What is a Roof Rat?

Roof rats, also known as black rats (Rattus rattus), are the gymnasts of the rodent world. Unlike their burrowing cousins, the brown rat, these sleek critters prefer to live high up, often nesting in attics, trees, and other elevated areas. They are slimmer and more agile than brown rats, typically measuring 6 to 8 inches long, with tails that are longer than their bodies. Their fur ranges from dark brown to black, and they have large eyes and ears, making them well-suited for nocturnal activities.

Roof Rat Behavior

Roof rats are excellent climbers, often using tree branches, utility lines, or even the sides of buildings to gain access to homes. Once inside, they'll nest in attics, rafters, or behind walls, preferring spaces that are quiet and out of sight. If you hear scurrying overhead at night, it's likely these nocturnal pests exploring their surroundings.

Roof rats are highly social and will often live in colonies. They're also opportunistic feeders, which means they'll eat just about anything, although they prefer fruits, nuts, seeds, and grains. In homes, roof rats will raid pantries, gnaw on food packaging, and leave a mess behind.

Why Roof Rats Love Toms River

With its temperate climate and lush vegetation, Toms River provides the perfect habitat for roof rats. These critters are particularly drawn to homes that have easy access to food and shelter. Properties with fruit trees, dense shrubbery, or poorly sealed attics are especially attractive to them. If your home has overhanging tree branches near the roof, or if you store food in unsecured areas, you may be inviting these unwelcome guests inside.

Signs of a Roof Rat Infestation

Roof rats are sneaky, but they do leave clues behind. Here's how to know if you've got these critters lurking in your home:

Noises in the Attic: Since roof rats are nocturnal, you're most likely to hear scratching or scurrying sounds coming from above at night.
Droppings: Roof rat droppings are about half an inch long with pointed ends. You might find them in attics, near food sources, or along rat runways (paths they frequently travel).
Gnaw Marks: Roof rats love to chew! They'll gnaw on wires, wood, and food packaging, leaving behind small teeth marks.
Grease Marks: As they squeeze through tight spaces, roof rats leave greasy smudges along walls, beams, or rafters.
Nests: Roof rats build nests using shredded materials like insulation, fabric, or paper, often in attics or hidden corners of your home.

The Risks of Roof Rats

While roof rats may seem like simple nuisances, they can actually cause significant problems:

Health Risks: Roof rats can spread diseases like Salmonella, leptospirosis, and even plague (though this is extremely rare in modern times). They can also introduce fleas and ticks into your home.
Property Damage: Roof rats will gnaw on almost anything, including electrical wires, which can create a fire hazard. They may also chew through insulation, wooden beams, and stored belongings.
Food Contamination: Roof rats can contaminate food stores with their droppings, urine, and fur, leading to waste and potential health risks.