Strange noises coming from within your wall can be quite alarming, and is often a tell-tale sign that you have rats in your home. But this isn't the only way you can tell, and sometimes it's not as obvious.
They might look cute, but rats are vermin and can carry serious diseases that can transmit to humans.
Around the world, rats and mice are known to spread over 35 diseases, which is why it's so important to be aware of signs they may have taken up residency in your home.
Rats are mostly nocturnal, so unfortunately it's not always obvious to spot them. Luckily Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, has shared the key signs to look for.
Signs you have rats in your home
Smell and sound
If your home is suffering from a "heavy infestation" of mice and rats, you might notice a "very strong ammonia stench". Ammonia has a very strong odour, similar to urine.
As well as this, rodents are often very noisy, which means you might hear scrabbling noises.
Droppings
One sign that requires a keen eye is rat droppings, which are usually up to 14mm in size, dark and spindle-shaped.
Mice droppings are even smaller, typically around 5mm and oval-shaped.
Smears
Rodents usually use established routes along skirting boards and walls because of their poor eyesight.
Therefore, you might notice grease marks where the rodents have brushed up against walls and other surfaces.
Footprints
It's worth looking for any footprints in dusty, less-used areas of your home, such as attic or basement. You should be able to see these even more clearly if you use a flashlight at a low angle.
You can also use this method even if you don't already have any dusty areas.
Paul told Express.co.uk: "To establish if an infestation is active, sprinkle fine flour or talcum powder along a small stretch of floor near the footprints and check for fresh tracks the next day."
Burrows
"Brown rats are well known for digging and excavating extensive burrow systems for shelter, food storage and nesting," explained Paul.
He added: "They build burrows next to structures, such as sheds or garages, and are also found in secluded, well-vegetated areas such as gardens."
Damage
Lastly, it's important to look for any damage in the form of gnawing marks, shredded paper or broken food storage containers, which are all common signs of rodents.
Change in pets behaviour
An additional sign, shared by pest control experts Rentokil, lies in the behaviour of your pets.
Apparently, if your pets with strong noses are unexplainably active and excited in certain areas of the house, a rat nest could be the reason.
How to remove rodents from your home
According to Paul, preventive measures are always best when it comes to rats. Make sure to remove sources of shelter and food, which will discourage them from setting up home in your property.
He added: "As soon as you confirm signs of rodents you should restrict access to their lifelines (food, water and shelter)."
Another way to deter rodents from your home are cats and dogs. However, he added: "although this is not a foolproof method of keeping your home free from this all-too-common pest problem".
It's also important to know when to call in professional help. He explained: "If you do see any obvious holes in the exterior of your premises, or suspect that your drains may have been compromised, then be sure to talk to a professional pest controller."
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