Frequently Asked Questions

• Report a rodent sighting (PDF). This will help us track pest control issues and trends. 
• For professional advice and/or possible treatment options, contact a licensed pest control company. Many offer a free consultation.
• If you rent, talk with your landlord.
• Ask around and talk to neighbors for referrals and recommendations.

A good pest control company will:

• Inspect your property before giving a quote.
• Give you a detailed written report and action plan personalized to your property and your needs.
• Make referrals for structural repair.
• Revisit and re-evaluate until your pest problem is gone.
• Educate you on how to prevent rats in the future.

Disposing of dead rats is important for the health and safety of people, their pets, and wildlife. To properly dispose of a dead rat:

• Put on protective gloves 
• Place the rat in 2 plastic bags and throw away in the regular trash
• Wash your hands thoroughly

Pick up animal feces: Rats eat dog and cat feces so be sure to pick up after your animals

Control birdseed: Keep birdseed under control and in the feeder as much as possible. Rats are drawn to birdseed on the ground.

Pick up tree fruit: Pick up fallen tree fruit.

Bag and cover trash: Rats will climb into open cans and root through trash on the ground. Tie up trash bags and store them in covered containers until they can be disposed of properly. Replace any garbage containers that have holes.

Clean grill area: Keep grills and grilling areas clean and clear of food waste.

Maintain compost piles: Compost piles that are not properly contained provide food to rats. Make sure your compost is maintained and securely covered.

Dispose of yard waste and building materials: Make sure your yard is maintained and that yard waste is properly disposed of in yard bags. Stack building materials, lumber and firewood at least 12 inches above the ground.

Cover openings: Don't give rats a place to live. Cover openings that are greater than 1/2 inch in diameter with concrete, sheet metal or wire mesh.

The most scientific explanation and plausible cause is related to the shorter and warmer winters we have had in recent years. Rats are typically less active during the colder parts of the year and are less likely to breed. With a warmer winter, they can breed more and have more offspring that will eventually increase the size of the population we see during the summer and fall.

Additional reasons for increased in rat sightings may include:

• Construction and excavation disrupting their below ground habitat
• Lack of natural predators such as coyotes, foxes, and birds of prey, due to ever-expanding development and decreasing green spaces