GETTING
RID OF RATS
It is said that
there are 60 million rates in the UK - that's one rat per
person and whilst it is true that they live in sewers, they
use the vast network to get about and but live indoors and
outdoors.
The common rat can be found anywhere where there is food
and shelter, not just drains and sewers. In domestic dwellings,
rats can be around all year if they are getting plenty of
food.
You might not think you are feeding the rats but bird feeders
and compost bins are a top restaurant and provide lodgingsfor
rats too.
Rats will burrow into hedgerows; compost heaps provide organic
heat and shelter can be found under garden sheds where they
will make nests.
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Poor hygiene
does encourage rodent infestations so refuse must be cleared
up to deter them but a nice clean home with easy access
is just as good for rodents, but it won't be clean for
long!.
If common rats
gains entry into a home they can be found in a variety
of places including the roof space, under floors and inside
cavity walls.
Rats are mainly active at night but can be seen during
the day foraging for food..
Pruning back climbing plants that are growing on the side
of houses e.g. roses, clematis, etc helps reduce the means
of entry keeping it below the window-sill line and repairing
structural damage.
Look for holes
around waste pipes, these are a common occurrence and
should be filled.
Rat entry via drains may be prevented by ensuring that
any breaks in the drain or sewers are repaired promptly.
A balloon
guard can be fitted to the top of rain or vent pipes to
prevent access being gained.
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Rats do not
only cause damage to property, but they can also transmit
diseases to humans, such as Leptospirosis (Weils disease),
this can be fatal.
Rats, like
mice cause considerable damage by gnawing at woodwork,
water pipes and electric cables.
They grow fast and are sexually mature at eight to twelve
weeks.
The rat's gestation period is twenty one to twenty four
days with a litter size average of six to eleven. The
female rat can have four to six litters.
DIY Rat Ridding?
If you even think you have a rat problem because of droppings
(oval in shape ½ inch to ¾inches in length),
signs of gnawing or scratching sounds, holes in the ground;
you should use a qualified
'rat catcher' for professional help in controlling the
rat infestation.
Pest controllers will visit you as quick as possible;
in the meantime do not leave any excess food waste outside
overnight and place all household rubbish in the dustbin
and keep the lid shut.
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