Most people will reply no if you ask them if they have rats in their house, but if you ask them if they've ever checked their attic, they'll usually respond yes. People who haven't checked their attics for rats are frequently surprised. It is often the case that rats can be found in seemingly unoccupied attics. Is there a chance that you've got rats or potentially some other rodents hiding in yours?
It's not uncommon for mice and rats to thrive in attics years before a homeowner notices them. Similarly, when individuals find rats in their homes, they frequently trace the site of entrance back to their attic, but why is this such a typical occurrence and how did rats get into your attic in the first place?
Why attics are a natural habitat for many rodents?
Heights
One of the first things to remember is that each rat or mouse is ultimately led by its instincts. There are many distinct types of rodents. Each species has its own strategy for surviving in the wild. The most commonly found rat species in UK homes is the black rat, which is particularly fond of heights.
The black rat is sometimes known as the "roof rat." And, as the name implies, black rats enjoy heights as they are fantastic climbers. They may travel quickly from limb to limb on any particular tree in nature. This ability has given it a significant edge in human environments. A black rat can effortlessly jump from a tree to a roof, which is why they are most commonly found in attics.
Rodents are nocturnal animals, with the black rat being one exception. They may relax in peace throughout the day because attics are the perfect hiding place. Their natural behaviour is in line with the quiet, dark environment of attics, which provides a safe haven from potential predators.
Nesting Instincts
Rodents possess a strong nesting instinct. Attics, with their hidden and enclosed spaces, provide an ideal environment for these creatures to build nests. The insulation materials found in attics, such as fibreglass or shredded paper, serve as perfect nesting materials for rodents, enabling them to create secure and comfortable shelters for breeding and raising their young.
If you’re concerned, we offer pest control in Farheam, Portsmouth, Petersfield, Gosport, and the surrounding areas. Just call us on 07501702101 and we'll be happy to help.
Sharp Incisors
Rodents have continuously growing incisors, and they must gnaw on objects to keep their teeth trimmed and healthy. Attics often contain wooden structures, insulation materials, and electrical wiring, providing rodents with various items to chew on. This natural behaviour of gnawing contributes to the structural damage observed in attics, posing a dual threat to both the integrity of the building and the safety of its occupants.
Seasonal Patterns
Rodents exhibit seasonal patterns in their behaviour. During colder months, attics become particularly attractive to them as warm and insulated spaces. Additionally, rodents may migrate between attics based on factors like food availability and environmental changes. Understanding these seasonal variations in rodent behaviour is crucial for effective pest control strategies, allowing homeowners to anticipate and address potential infestations proactively.
Contact us for rodent control
If you live in or around Portsmouth, Fareham, or Hampshire and require an immediate rodent treatment service, such as crawl space rat control, rodent and pest trap installations, or an exterminator, contact our experts now. You may reach us by phone at 023 9309 2101, via mobile at 07501 70 2101, or by email at nat@pegasus-pest.co.uk. If you're pressed for time, fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation quotation!
