There are lots of common and familiar sounds that you can hear at night, from rustling leaves and whirring appliances to insects chirping. Another one that you might also hear is scratching noises or the sound of something scurrying on your roof or attic. If you do start to notice this pitter-patter in your home, you might have a rodent infestation. Here are the most common signs that you have rats in the attic:
Scratching Noises or Scurrying Sounds
This could be your first clue that you have an infestation. Since rodents are nocturnal, you will hear the rustling and scurrying sounds at night as they move around for food and nesting.
Rub Marks
These are sticky black stains and smudges that are a result of the continuous contact of the rats’ filthy bodies on the surfaces. The presence of these marks is an indication of an established route, also called a rat runway.
Stale Odor
When rodent urine sits in a spot for a long time, it gives off a stale smell. Since rats urinate in odd places, such as corners, you could check this part of your attic to confirm the infestation.
Rodent Droppings
You’ll often see rat feces in secluded areas like the attic or basement as well as near food sources like your kitchen or pantry. They are dark, shaped like a banana, and about half an inch long.
Gnaw Marks on Wires, Food Packaging, etc.
Rats like to chew on almost everything they come across, including electrical wires, drywall, cardboard, and boxes of snacks. They can also gnaw on hard materials like plastic.
Shredded Paper or Fabric
If you have piles of old newspapers or clothing in your attic and see some shredded pieces or scraps, there’s a good chance that the culprits are rats. These are materials that they like to use to build their nests.
Small Holes on Walls and in the Floor
Rats need access to various parts of the house to collect food and nesting material, which is why they chew holes in walls and floors. They must also gnaw on things to grind their incisors and keep them pain-free.
Let Us Help You Address the Infestation in Your Attic
Once you see signs of infestation, you should explore safe and effective rodent removal from your attic. Turn to us at Arrow Services, Inc. for rodent control services in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois.