Roof Rats

What do roof rats look like?

Roof rats, also known as black rats, range from 6 to 8 inches in length, with slightly longer tails than their bodies. From the nose to the tip of the tail, roof rats can be as long as 18 inches. Along with their long tails and black color, you may distinguish roof rats by their conical noses.

Why are they called roof rats?

The name says it all. These rats access homes and structures through rooftops. They also prefer to nest in high places. If you’re wondering if you have a roof rat infestation, we recommend checking your attic first, particularly if you have an unfinished attic space.

What do roof rats eat?

Roof rats are opportunistic feeders. They eat both plant and animal matter. Here are a few foods you may find them eating:

• Seeds and nuts from the ground
• Bird seed from feeders
• Berries from bushes
• Fruit from tree limbs
• Stored seeds, grain, and nuts
• Pet food from outdoor dishes
• Leftovers in outdoor garbage receptacles

Citrus trees are a common attractant in Phoenix. Roof rats love oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and other abundant fruits. 

Are roof rats dangerous to humans or pets?

Yes, but not directly. Roof rats tend to avoid confrontations with people and domesticated animals. Here are a few ways they can present a threat:

• The droppings and urine they leave behind can present a source of disease.
• The germs they pick up in unsanitary areas are spread when they climb on surfaces and get into stored foods.
• The fleas and ticks they pick up can present a source of disease.
• Their tendency to chew on wires poses a serious risk to both health and property.

While not considered a direct threat, use caution if you discover these rats inside your home. They can bite or scratch when they feel threatened.

How do roof rats enter homes?

These rats get into homes in some very surprising ways. They start by getting on the roof. Here are a few ways they’ll do it:

• They may run across a power line.
• They may climb up a pipe that runs up the exterior.
• They may scale a tree and use an overhanging branch.
• They may scale a rough exterior surface the way they would climb a tree.

When roof rats get on a roof, they look for vulnerabilities. Here are some possible entry points:

• An opening provided by clay, sand-cast, or concrete roof tiles
• A gap in a soffit under a roof soffit intersection
• A damaged seal around a roof pipe
• A gap where the roof meets the upper exterior walls
• A gable vent

Using their abilities to climb and jump, roof rats can get to high places with surprising ease.

What attracts roof rats to properties?

Roof rats are always on the lookout for food and water. If they also find shelter, they’ll happily move in. Here are some conditions that could put out the welcome mat:

• Fallen fruit or accessible fruit on branches
• Berry bushes or a garden
• Dense shrubs or ivy on the home
• Open trash receptacles
• Pet food left outdoors at night
• Water sources like birdbaths, pet bowls, damaged irrigation systems, kiddie pools, etc.

Keep in mind that roof rats don’t need an invitation. They can move into your attic for only one reason: nesting.

What are the signs of a roof rat infestation?

While roof rats are quiet, nocturnal animals that can easily go under the radar, you’re likely to have clues lying around if these pests have gotten inside your home:

• Black, wet-looking droppings
• Black marks around an exterior gap or hole
• Gnaw marks on building materials or stored food packages
• Scratching or bumping noises in walls or attic spaces
• Grease marks on baseboards or rafters
• Nests made of leaves, twigs, cotton, fabrics, insulation, cushion stuffing, etc.

Early detection of roof rats is essential to avoid health-related issues and property damage. 

Where do roof rats typically nest?

Roof rats nest in high places. Here are a few examples:

• On the branches of citrus trees where foliage is dense
• In a tree cavity
• In the dead palm frond skirts of palm trees
• In an attic space
• In rafters
• Inside wall and ceiling voids 
• In stored furniture in attic spaces

Outdoors, look for nests made of twigs and leaves. Indoors, look for balled-up fabrics, stuffing, and insulation.

Can roof rats damage property or structures?

Yes. There are several ways roof rats can cause property damage. Here are some to consider:

• They gnaw on building materials and create holes.
• They soil indoor spaces with piles of droppings.
• They soak insulation and other areas with urine.
• They gnaw on electrical wires.
• They damage gardens, fruit, and certain ornamental plants.

It is essential to address roof rat infestations quickly to minimize the damage. Roof rat populations grow quickly.

How can I get rid of roof rats? 

If you’re concerned about a roof rat infestation in or around your home, contact Termio Pest Control for effective rodent control solutions! 

How can I prevent a roof rat infestation?

To discourage roof rats from living in or around your home, you must manage attractants, remove access routes, and seal entry points.

• You can manage attractants by protecting food sources, removing seeds, and covering trash receptacles.
• You may remove routes by trimming branches near your roof.
• You may seal entry points by filling gaps with expanding foam or caulking material.