Roof Rats
Appearance and Size Facts
- Roof rats are brown or black-gray in color, with a white-gray or black underside
- Their tail is scaly and naked, and is always longer than the head and the body combined
- Smooth fur
- Size: Approximately 13-inches in length including the tail
- They are slightly smaller than Norway rats and weigh roughly 8 ounces
- Excellent climbers and it is common to see grease and dirt marks along their travel paths
Behavior and Habitat of Roof Rats
Roof rats will eat almost anything, but they prefer fruit, vegetables, and cereal products. Contrary to mice, rats need a free-standing water source in order to survive, as they do not get the moisture needed from their food source alone. Roof rats eat a lot at one time, and will return to that place time after time for food. It is common to see grease and dirt marks along their travel paths. They are excellent climbers. Roof rats nest within structures in high places, but sometimes in sewers or under buildings. Outdoors, Roof rats nest in high places (such as trees) as well, but sometimes they burrow under plants.
Signs of Infestation of Roof Rats
Look for droppings and grease marks along surfaces, as well as nests.
Tips for Prevention of Roof Rats
Seal up any holes or cracks larger than 1/2" with silicone caulk, wire mesh, steel wool, cement, or foam. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from the building and cut back limbs overhanging the roof. Additionally, clean up fruit that may fall from trees in the yard and keep garbage in tightly covered receptacles.
Roof Rat Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
Subterranean Termite Control in West Palm Beach: Sentricon Colony Elimination
Mar 09, 2023—Florida Termites
Here in Palm Beach County and our northern neighbors in the Treasure Coast, including subterranean termite prevention and control as a part of your general home maintenance plan is essential. This is especially true in West Palm Beach, which was named in the “Top 10 Worst Termite...
Read More ›
New Year Pest Control Resolutions for Your South Florida Home
Dec 19, 2022—Rodents, Pest Control, Rodents
A new year means new pests are trying to call your South Florida house their home. This year, along with new year’s resolutions to improve your health, finances, attitude, and whatever other things you want to change in your life, make this year the year you keep your South Florida home...
Read More ›
Expert Advice on Protecting Your Home and Lawn from Pests this Winter
Dec 08, 2022—Florida Lawn Care
Living in South Florida means rodents, ants, and other pests don't take the winters off! Meanwhile, your lawn needs less watering and mowing during the winter months and is susceptible to various diseases such as brown patch fungus. Your lawn in winter While we’re outdoors, let’s talk...
Read More ›
