They’re not actually natives of Norway, but Norway rats may soon be the newest residents of your property.
Though they don’t call Scandinavia home, Norway rats came aboard Norwegian ships from Asia to the United States and have welcomed themselves to homeowners’ food and belongings.
Norway rats aren’t small critters. Typically, they’re seven to nine inches in length with a six to eight-inch-long tail and are covered with coarse, shaggy brown hair. They may have small, flat noses, but they can smell sources of food from afar and have an excellent sense of taste.
They can be tough to catch as they tend to be more active at night, but there are a few sure signs of pests roaming around your property.
1. Gnaw marks
Nearly anything is fair game. From personal belongings to electrical wiring to furniture, Norway rats will leave gnaw marks behind. Even the structure of buildings is appetizing to Norway rats, which usually leave gnaw marks about two inches or more in diameter with rough edges.
2. Droppings
A sure sign of Norway rats is droppings they leave behind. Typically about 3/4 of an inch long, droppings can be found along commonly traveled paths in your home or nearby structures. If you do encounter Norway droppings, be careful —
they have the potential to spread disease and germs to humans.
3. Tracks
Norway rat tracks are especially visible on top of muddy or dusty surfaces, but can be tough to spot on other surfaces. If you suspect a infestation, try leaving a light dusting or flour or baby power on a few surfaces to determine if your hunch is accurate.
4. Burrows
In order to make nests, Norway rats may burrow in areas next to walls, under buildings, beneath debris, and in a variety of spaces. Yet the pests also need a steady access to food and water and tend to live in close association with humans.
5. Grease marks
The oil and dirt that builds up on Norway rats will often be left behind in their tracks or on walls. That spot on your floor might not be from your muddy shoes after all — it could be grease marks. It’s time to look further into your foundation to get rid of the pesky creatures.
If you suspect Norway rats roaming around your property,
contact Plunkett’s Pest Control. Our professionals have been in the business for over 100 years and
have the experience and expertise to effectively get rid of the pests and prevent a future infestation.
