Rats are a major problem in East Tennessee because they can cause extensive damage to your property and are a serious health hazard. Itโs essential to tackle a rodent issue promptly once you notice any signs of an infestation. So, how should you address the presence of rats on your East Tennessee property? Here are some effective strategies:
- Reduce clutter. Keeping your property clean and organized is vital. Clutter offers numerous hiding places for rats, enabling them to easily settle and multiply. Regularly clearing out unused items and keeping spaces neat can significantly deter these pests.
- Manage waste properly. Make sure your trash is disposed of regularly and that garbage bins have tight-fitting lids to prevent rats from accessing food waste.
- Address moisture issues. Fix any leaky taps or plumbing and eliminate damp areas around your home. Rats need water to survive and are attracted to moist environments.
- Use traps and bait. Installing traps or bait stations in areas where you suspect rat activity can be highly effective. It’s crucial to place these traps safely to avoid access by children and pets.
Why You May Have Rat Infestations
Rats typically invade homes during the colder seasons, searching for food, water, and shelter. Factors that make homes attractive to rats include:
- Accessible Food: Food that is left uncovered overnight or trash that isnโt properly secured can attract rats.
- Nesting Materials: Clutter, such as old newspapers and cardboard boxes, is an excellent material for rats to build their nests.
- Sources of Water: Any standing water or leaky pipes create an ideal drinking source for these pests.
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How to Get Rid of Burrowing Ratsย
Burrowing rats pose a unique challenge as they create underground tunnels for shelter and reproduction. To manage these pests:
- Identify entry points. Look for rat burrows around the foundation of your building, in garden areas, or near places where garbage is stored. These burrows are usually small holes with smooth edges from frequent use.
- Set traps. Place snap traps or live traps baited with appealing foods like peanut butter or cheese near these entry points.
- Use rodenticides. In cases of severe infestations, you may need to use rodenticides. Place these carefully in burrow entrances, adhering to safety guidelines to protect other wildlife and the environment.
- Seek professional help. If the infestation persists or is extensive, itโs wise to consult professional pest control services for a more comprehensive solution.
Get Rid of Rats with East Tennessee Professional Extermination
Handling a rat infestation can be daunting and risky to your health without professional help. While DIY methods might provide some temporary solutions, they are often inadequate for controlling burrowing rats or extensive infestations.ย
At Johnson Pest Control, our team of state-certified rat extermination experts uses advanced, industry-standard techniques and has 40 years of experience. We provide a thorough service that includes an initial inspection, customized eradication plans, and follow-up visits to resolve any pest problem. Contact us today for a free estimate!
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