Fall is the most common season for roof rats due to their outdoor food source being reduced. Even when our region is experiencing warmer than normal temperatures, natural food sources are drying up. Memphis is ranked number 1 for infestations from this invasive species.
They are much easier to distinguish from some of their rodent relatives because of their long and scaly tails.
According to Andy Long, director of Rosie’s Pest Control, roof rats usually stay out of plain sight but even one spotted is very often times a sign of a serious infestation.
Long also said they are usually active at night and often leave smudge marks as result of dirt and oil. You can also find evidence in droppings around active areas.
Roof rats may enter buildings and structures via holes, soffit vents, cables entering buildings and turbine and box vents on roofs. Inspections by a professional can help identify these entry points so needed repairs and preventative maintenance can be done. Contact Andy Long or Katie Fox with Rosie’s to get your free home or business inspection before the weather gets any cooler.