Brevard County, Melbourne Rat Control Situation:
David, I have trapped 3 roof rats in the attic and have heard more this morning chewing and romping about. I have sealed all entries I to the house with exception to drain stacks on roof. I can see feces in gutters but cannot see anywhere where they could be getting into the attic. I have been working with an exterminator for two months and he's out of ideas so I was wondering what advise you may put forward. Sure would like to get rid of them for good prior to breeding season. I am in Dallas Tx area. Last December our dog caught o e in yard, this summer I caught one in shed, and I caught one in attic and pro has caught two ... But like I said there appears to be more. We have a two story stucco house in Melbourne FL. Over the past 3 years I have caught at least 30 mice in our attic, all the while searching diligently and unsuccessfully for the entry point(s). I found a few possible places and have closed them off but still catch one or two a week. I am completely stumped on this. They are only in the attic as far as I know. We do have a dryer flap-vent in a below grade window well but that leads to the basement and we don't see them there. Is there any new "scientific" way to identify entry points? Advice appreciated pls -- Matt
Melbourne Rat Control Tip of The Week
Should I Remove Rats Myself, Or Hire A Pro?
Disposing of rats is something you need to do, however the question is how you can achieve this. You can do this without the help of anybody; however, some would want to employ an expert. So which is the most ideal route to choose?
Let's take a look at the things to consider.
If you are certain that it is only one rat, then there is just one reason to hire an expert unless the rat appears to be sick. If you can't tell if the rat is sick, there are signs to check for and you should get familiar with these. Otherwise, it is just an issue of getting a trap, setting it up, and trusting that the rat will get captured.
There are traps that permit you to kill the rat right away and there are those that will basically trap the rat alive. If you select the ones that kill the rat, when it is dead, just toss it out and your problem is solved. However, if you decide to catch it live, take it to an area where it can't go back into your home and let it go. Ensure you wear gloves when dealing with the rat, regardless of which trap you pick.
If you find that there is more than one rat in your home, then it might be an ideal option to hire an expert. You might not have the necessary skills, time, and expertise to catch multiple rats. Rats are creatures that like to live in huge groups, so you will find that there can be thousands living in one area.
If you notice a spot in your home where they are living, then it is a smart thought to get an expert to come and take care of them. They won't just end the rat infestation in your home, but will likewise dispose of the vermin. This will keep you from having to deal with the problem at all.