Oh Rats!

As the temperatures begin to drop in North Texas, rats start looking for warm, cozy places to spend the winter months. Unfortunately, your home often tops their list of desirable real estate! Understanding these persistent pests can help you protect your property from unwanted rodent guests.

Meet North Texas's Unwelcome Residents

Norway Rats

The larger of our two main species, Norway rats are excellent diggers and typically nest in basements, crawl spaces, and ground floors. These robust rodents can produce an average of 6 litters per year, making them prolific reproducers.

Roof Rats

Smaller but agile climbers, roof rats prefer higher locations like attics, rafters, and upper floors. They're slightly less prolific than their Norway cousins, producing 3-4 litters per year.

The Shocking Truth About Rat Entry Points

Here's what might surprise you: rats can squeeze through openings as small as the width of a pencil! If you can stick a pencil through a gap, a rat can likely fit through it too. This incredible ability makes thorough home sealing absolutely critical.

Fall Prevention Checklist

As we head into the cooler months, take these essential steps to protect your home:

1. Inspect and Replace Door Weather Stripping

Check all exterior doors for gaps and worn weather stripping. Even small gaps under doors can serve as superhighways for rodents.

2. Fill Exterior Holes and Gaps

Walk around your home's perimeter and seal any holes or gaps with steel wool and caulk. Pay special attention to areas where pipes and wires enter your home.

3. Remove Potential Nesting Materials

Clear away debris, leaf piles, and stored materials from around your home's foundation. Rats love to nest in cluttered areas close to food sources.

4. Trim Trees and Bushes

Keep tree branches at least 6 feet away from your roof line. Rats are excellent climbers and can use overhanging branches as bridges to your home.

5. Secure Food Sources

Store pet food in sealed containers, clean up fallen fruit from trees, and ensure garbage cans have tight-fitting lids.

Expert Insight

Urban Rodentologist Bobby Corrigan reminds us that "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" when it comes to rodent control. Taking proactive steps now can save you significant headaches (and expenses) later.

The Kolibri Difference

At Kolibri Pest Services, we understand that effective rodent control requires more than just setting traps. Our comprehensive approach includes:

• Thorough property inspection to identify entry points
• Strategic exclusion work to seal access routes
• Ongoing monitoring and prevention
• Education to help you maintain a rodent-free environment

Don't wait until you hear scratching in the walls or see droppings in your kitchen. Contact us today at (972) 217-7151 to schedule your fall rodent inspection and join the Kolibri family!