The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) is the only rat currently found in Wisconsin. This grey to black rat can be up to 17” (total) in length and can weigh up to 20 ½ ounces. It can enter structures with gaps and openings of ½“ in diameter. They live in burrows and will eat just about anything. Norway rats are nocturnal but if you see them in the daytime it usually means there is a large population. They are a destructive pest that has been linked to a variety of diseases and damage. Female rats are capable of having seven litters in a year. Each litter has 2 to 14 young.
Can Rats Harm Me?
Rats can bite and have been known to carry many diseases. They have been known to be a carrier reservoir linked to the spread of the bubonic plague and other diseases and bacteria such as murine typhus, leptospirosis, salmonellosis and rat bite fever.
Do Rats Cause Damage?
It can gnaw and chew through just about any structure. Rats have been known to chew wires that have been linked to fires in homes and businesses. It can cause structural damage from contamination by their feces and urine. Depending on the size of the colony, it can damage and consume large amounts of food and feed.
What Can I Do?
Sealing gaps in the foundation, fixing door seals or pipe entries will help prevent this pest from entering. Managing sanitation and reducing food sources and water will also help lessen the attractiveness to your home or business. However, due to the complexity of Norway rats, it is best left up to the professional especially if this critter is living in your home or structure. This is one pest you do not want to tackle on your own! Contact us today for professional assistance and peace of mind.
Why Contact Terminator Pest Control?
The best way to control and eliminate Norway rats is to call Terminator Pest Control. We will inspect your home or building for points of entry, sanitation and moisture management. We can also provide rodent proofing, sanitation and removal of rodent feces. We will work together in developing an effective Norway rat management and control program.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of rats do you treat?
We primarily treat Norway one or Rattus norvegicus, which are the most common species found in Wisconsin. Our team uses targeted strategies based on their nesting habits and behavior to ensure effective control.
Are rats dangerous to have on my property?
Yes, they can pose serious risks. They are known to spread diseases, contaminate food, and cause structural damage by chewing through materials such as wiring, insulation, and wood.
How do rats get into homes and businesses?
They can enter through very small openings, often as little as half an inch in diameter. Common entry points include gaps around doors, utility lines, vents, and foundations.
How quickly can a rat infestation grow?
Populations can grow rapidly due to their high reproduction rate. A single female can produce multiple litters each year, with several young per litter, making early detection and treatment essential.
How does Terminator Pest Control eliminate rats?
We use a comprehensive approach that includes inspection, identification of entry points, targeted treatments, and exclusion methods. Our goal is not only to remove the current population but also to prevent future infestations.
Get Started Today
Don’t wait for it to take over. Learn more about us and our services. Our expert technicians provide fast, reliable solutions to keep your home and family protected. Schedule your service now and enjoy a pest-free environment.
