You would be really frightened if you knew how quickly rats multiplied. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent an infestation from getting out of control. The faster you act at the first sign of a rat infestation can drastically reduce the length of time required to effectively control an infestation.

How Often Do Rats Reproduce?

Rats produce large numbers of offspring to ensure some will survive long enough to produce their own litters. If they have enough space and food their numbers can explode. Rats reach sexual maturity when they are nine weeks old and can birth six litters per year. These litters can have up to 12 pups. That means two rats can become 1,250 in just a year with exponential growth a possibility.

Why are Rats so Hard to Get Rid Of?

Not only do rats breed quickly, they can be difficult to control. Rats can become trap shy and have been reported to stay away from a food source until they see how other pests will be affected by it. It is very important to recognize the signs of a rat problem so you can prevent the rapid rate of reproduction. An increase in roof rats has been reported and are moving into areas where they haven’t been prevalent in the past. Roof rats can destroy valuable agriculture and homes when they invade attics. Just because changes in weather and favorable environmental conditions make it easy for populations to grow doesn’t mean we don’t make it easy for them too. Rats can cause many problems and are known to be the most destructive pest for businesses. They can cause machines to breakdown and damage to electrical equipment. These problems can result in an average of eight workdays lost every year.

How to Tell if You Have Rats in Your Walls, Home & Property

You can find rats anywhere people live and work – that’s everywhere! Rats can spread disease, damage property and contaminate food. If they get into your home or business, they can also introduce parasites like fleas and ticks. Signs you’re dealing with rats include:
• Rodent Droppings. Rats can produce up to 40 droppings each night. These droppings are dark brown with pointed edges and look like a large grain of rice.
• Chewing Damage. Rats will chew on just about anything to keep their teeth trimmed. They will also leave visible teeth marks on food packaging.
• Rat Tracks. Rats leave foot and tail marks in dusty areas.
• Rat Rub Marks. Rats have greasy fur and will leave smudge marks along walls as they travel.
• Scratching Noises. Scratching noise in the attic or in the walls at night.

Rodent Inspections, Control, Exclusion & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas

If conditions were ideal a rat population can spiral out of control very quickly. Populations can be controlled through a reduction in shelter and food, natural predation, disease in-fighting and pest control. Many times, homeowners offer ideal conditions for rats to thrive and survive and a small problem can become a large problem in no time. Does your home or business need help with rodent control? Contact A Five Star Termite & Pest Control today!