When rats are looking for a nest they will find an opening to a place that provides warmth, shelter and food. Because of this, winter is the most common rat time in Melbourne. This is due to the cold and wet nature of the winter climate. We will explore the types of rats that call Melbourne home as well as a few tips on how to prevent a rat infestation, what to do if you have one, and what to do if you can’t get rid of them. Melbourne is home to the Norway Rat, Roof Rat, and House Mouse.
A quick guide on how to get rid of rats
The saying “a good defence is the best offence” proves a tried and tested solution to the prevention of rat infestations, however, we will take a quick look at how to best protect a home from a rat infestation, followed by taking a look at what to do if you were to ever find yourself the unlucky host of a nest of rats.
How to prevent rat infestation?
Rats will look for a source of shelter, warmth and food as these all make great nesting environments. The first step is to clear any rubbish or sources of shelter from your garden and home. By maintaining a tidy environment you won't be setting up the next great rat motel. Second, be sure to clean up any sources of food. Make sure your food items are stored properly and any opened packages are resealed. And finally, be sure to close up any gaps around the house that may serve as an entry to the house. Gaps can be as small as only a few centimetres wide and rats will be able to enlarge the opening or squeeze in. Rats also multiply incredibly fast so one rat will very quickly turn into a colony.
What to do if I cannot get rid of rats?
If you, however, find yourself to be the lucky owner of the rat hotel, the task can be monumental if you try and get rid of them on your own. You can always start by following the preventative measures of eliminating sources of entry, food, and shelter, however, a rat control service will be able to prove more efficient and effective solutions in managing a rat infestation.
Managing a rat infestation becomes a race against the clock as rats reproduce at an alarming rate and are highly destructive rodents. If you are unable to prevent the situation from occurring it is best to go straight to a professional that is equipped to help you manage the situation. Professional pest controllers often deploy traps and baits that can both eliminate or trap the rats and allow them to be relocated. To find out whether a pest controller offers humane animal management practices, it is best to do some research before engaging a contractor.
This video shows a dead rat on the road.