Roof rats are nocturnal creatures that typically sleep during the day and forage for food at night. However if their usual sleeping and nesting areas are disturbed or if they are looking for a new food source they may venture out during the day. Roof rats are agile climbers and can easily access attics rafters and other high places where they build their nests.
Where do roof rats typically nest?
Answer: In trees attics roofs and dense vegetation.
What is the best way to prevent roof rats from entering my home?
Answer: Eliminate potential nesting sites and food sources and seal any openings leading into the home.
What do roof rats eat?
Answer: Grain fruit nuts vegetables and sometimes insects.
How can I tell if I have a roof rat problem?
Answer: Check for Damaged goods gnawed openings droppings or rub marks in your home.
You may also hear them scratching in the walls or loft.
What is the average lifespan of a roof rat?
Answer: Around 1 year but some have been known to live up to 3 years.
How large do roof rats get?
Answer: Around 16-18 inches from nose to tail with the tail being around 8-10 inches of that.
Are roof rats good swimmers?
Answer: Yes they are excellent swimmers and have been known to swim half a mile from shore.
Do roof rats carry diseases?
Answer: Yes they can carry a number of different diseases including the bubonic plague and typhus.
How do roof rats typically enter homes?
Answer: Through holes in the roof gaps around pipes and wires and cracks in the foundation.
How do roof rats reproduce?
Answer: A female roof rat can have up to 22 offspring per year.
How often do roof rats eat?
Answer: Around 15-20 times per day.
What is the home range of a roof rat?
Answer: Around 50-150 feet.
What time of day are roof rats most active?
Answer: Around dusk and dawn.
How fast can roof rats run?
Answer: Around 9 miles per hour.
What is the major predator of roof rats?
Answer: Owls snakes and cats.
