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Rats (Norway Rat and Roof Rat)

Description

In Puerto Rico, two common types are reported most often: the Norway rat, which is more robust and associated with ground areas, drains, and sewers, and the roof rat, which is more agile and associated with roofs, ceiling voids, and high areas. Both can invade homes and businesses when they find food, water, and shelter.

Risks

• Contamination of food through urine, droppings, or contact with surfaces.
• Damage to wiring and fire risk from gnawing.
• Risk of rodent-associated diseases and waste contamination.

Signs of infestation

• Droppings, which may vary in size depending on the species.
• Noises in walls, ceilings, or soffits at night.
• Gnaw marks on packaging, wood, or wires.
• Strong odor and greasy rub marks on walls in advanced infestations.

Why do they appear?

• Access to food such as garbage, pet food, and unsealed items.
• Access to water from leaks, drains, and damp areas.
• Shelter from clutter, dense vegetation, roofs, or attics.
• Unsealed openings in walls, around pipes, and at doors.

Prevention

• Store food, including pet food, in airtight containers.
• Eliminate water sources such as leaks, dishes left out, and standing water.
• Seal entry points including cracks, pipes, vents, and poorly sealed doors.
• Keep yards clean and trash securely closed.

Professional control

An effective plan combines inspection, exclusion through sealing, trapping or bait stations, and monitoring. At Bugs Or Us PR, we provide a clear diagnosis and targeted actions to reduce activity and avoid reinfestation, always prioritizing the safety of your family, pets, and the environment.

Service in: Bayamón, Corozal, Dorado, Manatí, Morovis, Naranjito, Toa Alta, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja.

Related pests

• Fleas
• Ticks