Most people are familiar with rodents in general thanks to pop culture and frequent sightings. One of the most common rodents people in the Dallas-Fort Worth area experience is rats. This term is applied to members of the rodent family that possess bodies longer than five inches and are thin-tailed. To date, there are approximately 56 species of rats throughout the world.
However, there are some species of rat more common than others in the United States and in McKinney. The two most common species are the brown rat also known as the Norway rat and the black rat, which also goes by the name roof rat. In addition, there are wood rats in the McKinney area, but they are much less common and unlikely to invade people’s homes.
Identifying Common Rat Species In North Texas
To remain protected from a rat infestation, it’s important to understand everything you need to know about the two most common rats.
- Norway rat: This rat is noted for its large size and bristly brown fur. They also have poor vision and are, in fact, colorblind. However, they make up for poor eyesight with their other senses, which are quite keen. While not known for its agility, this rat can climb, run, jump, and swim easily. They are extremely social and known for their ability to damage properties and structures thanks to their gnawing.
- Roof rat: Smaller than the Norway rat, this species is long and thin. They’re also darker in color with smoother fur. Interestingly, they only live for up to a year. Unfortunately, for property owners, they can produce up to 40 new offspring in their lifetime. They earned their name by their ability to climb and their affinity for spaces located on the upper floors of homes such as attics.
Preventing Rats From Getting Into Your McKinney Home
Regardless of the species, rats are bad news. The common rat species in McKinney and North Texas are no exception. Roof rats are the ones responsible for spreading the bubonic plague among other illnesses. In the case of Norway rats, they are especially good at causing property damage. However, they also cause diseases such as jaundice, rat-bite fever, cowpox virus, and salmonella. For this reason, it’s important to take advantage of the following prevention tips:
- Store your food: We recommend using metal or glass containers with tight lids.
- Clean regularly: Rats thrive on clutter since it helps them hide. No clutter means fewer hiding spots.
- Heavy metal trash cans: Use metal garbage cans with secure lids to keep rats out of your trash and away from your home.
- Seal up the entry points: Rats can fit in holes the size of a quarter or possibly smaller. Carefully inspect your property to ensure all holes and cracks are sealed to prevent access.
Ultimately, the best way to prevent a rat infestation is to work closely with a licensed pest control professional that is trained in rat control.
Rat Control With Adams Exterminating
At Adams Exterminating, we believe in treating everyone like family. Our team will protect you from potentially dangerous insects and rodents that wreak havoc on your home and put the health and well-being of your loved ones at risk. We combine affordability with customized pest control programs tailored to the pests you’ll find in the area, including rats. To ensure we offer what you need, we provide three different recurring pest control plans for you to choose from. We also provide stand-alone rodent control.
Are you in need of rat prevention services in McKinney, TX? Then give us a call to speak with one of our agents about our professional pest control options, or fill out our online form below to schedule your free inspection.