Norway Rat Basic Facts and Santa Fe Rodent Control Action Plan to Deal with Them
Norway rats are larger and more aggressive than their cousin, the roof rat or black rat, and have a stocky, heavy build. Norway rats are a common species in the United States; they are a commensal rodent, meaning they thrive in human settlements. For instance, Norway rats are found out in the Southwest part of the United States in Santa Fe, NM, homes. Norway rats are omnivores that enjoy cereal grains, meats, fish, nuts, and certain fruits. Like most rodents, Norway rats are most active in the early evening and early morning. Norway rats are notorious for wreaking havoc on homes, gardens, and other artificial buildings with their constant chewing. Norway rats spread diseases such as jaundice, rat-bite fever, and salmonella. The state of New Mexico and Santa Fe are both home to Norway rat populations.
Habitat of Norway Rats
Norway rats are ground burrowing mammals that can dig tunnels up to 6.5 feet and 2 inches in diameter. The underground dwellings, known as burrows, are typically built-in open areas next to patios and lawns. The Norway rat is a nocturnal rodent that will forage for food in homes before retiring to its burrow before dawn. When nests are discovered in buildings, they often turn up in dark, damp places like basements and crawl spaces. Norway rats will typically nest in the attic or another high location if their numbers become too great for the lower levels.
Effects of Norway Rat Habits, Dangers, and Dangerousness
Burrowing and gnawing as a means of finding food and refuge, Norway rats can cause extensive damage to foundations, slabs, garden produce, and plants. Norway rats can cause significant structural damage to buildings by making their nests in drywall and insulation. Evidence suggests that rodents can cause fires by chewing through electrical cables. Sparks can start internal wall fires from cables that have been chewed and are now exposed. The rodents eat and pollute human, pet, and animal feed while foraging. Norway rats transmit numerous infections, including salmonella, leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever.
Action Plan for Rat and Rodent Control in Norway
A professional exterminator will utilize several techniques to get rid of Norway rats. Your individualized service plan will likely incorporate mechanical traps and rodenticide baits, depending on the severity of the rodent problem.
On the first visit, the pest control specialist will survey your home to determine how severe the mouse problem is. Then, they’ll determine what kind of mouse it is and how bad the infestation is to create an integrated pest management plan.
Santa Fe homeowners, get rid of those pesky Norway rats right away! Give the professionals at Parker Pest Services a call at 505-401-9380.