"Big rats in New York" is a common google search, and for good reason. Wherever a large number of people live in close proximity to one another, rats follow. Because of the amount of easily accessible food, rats here become "big rats in New York" rather quickly. A rodent infestation of any kind is a nightmare for Long Island homeowners, but rat infestations are especially heinous and remind us why professional pest control in Long Island is so important. Read on to learn why it is so dangerous to have a rat infestation and how Parkway Pest Solutions can help you become rat-free today!
While most of the rats here on Long Island are large, how big they will grow depends on the type of rat.
Below are the three most common types of rats here:
- Norway rats: You may find these rats burrowing in your basement or crawl space because they are natural burrowers. They usually grow to about six to eight inches in length. You are more likely to see them invading your home during the winter months.
- Roof rats: Possibly the most common type of rat species in Long Island, the roof rat can be anywhere between three and eight inches in length. A vegetarian rat, the roof rat is sometimes called a citrus rat.
- Woodrats: These rats are similar to Norway rats, growing to anywhere between six and eight inches in length. The wood rat's fur color ranges from gray to black, to even red or brown, and their ears and tails are covered in fur.
Regardless of what kind of rat infestation you have, the best way to get rid of rats at home is to call a professional.
How Dangerous Is It To Have Rats In My House?
No matter what type of rat infestation you have, they can all carry devastating diseases. To avoid these diseases, you must get rid of rats at home and do your best to avoid them in public in the city as well. Below are some of the diseases they can spread to you and your family:
- Hantavirus: This can be spread through both mice and rats. There is no specific treatment, but this virus is life-threatening without medical intervention. Symptoms usually consist of a fever, fatigue, muscle aches, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Rat-bite fever: Despite its name, rat-bite fever can also be spread to humans through exposure to rats, or handling one, no bite or scratch needed. Symptoms include a fever, skin rash, headaches, vomiting, and muscle pains.
- Plague: Yes, that plague. This disease is unfortunately as alive and well today as it was during the Middle Ages, and if rats are exposed to fleas carrying the disease, they can just as easily pass it on to you as well. If you are exposed to rats with the plague, your lungs and immune system will be severely affected, and death is the outcome without immediate medical assistance.
It is very important to note that most diseases that rats spread can be contracted without interacting with a rat. You must simply be exposed to their feces, urine, or nesting materials.
What's The Best Way To Get Rid Of Rats In My Home?
The best way to get rid of rats in the house is to contact a professional. Professional pest control in Long Island is well equipped to handle any rat infestation and has access to tools that the general public generally does not have access to. However, there are several things you can do to prevent rats from getting into your home in the first place, such as sealing up any holes in your house, properly storing food, and removing clutter from your attic and basement.
How Can I Prevent Rats From Coming Back?
Because of the dangers rats pose to human health, the best way to get rid of rats in the house and prevent them from returning is to contact the pros here at Parkway Pest Services. We have been serving the Long Island area for over 80 years. We are intimately familiar with the types of rats that invade homes here and their behavioral patterns. Our expert technicians have the skills and tools required to safely and effectively exterminate entire rat infestations without anyone contracting a disease. In addition, they will assist you with implementing prevention strategies, ensuring rats do not return. If rats have invaded your home, don't try to remove them yourself — give us a call today!