ROOF RAT

Rats are instinctively wary of traps and bait, and colonize in attics, burrows, under concrete and porches, in wall voids and other hard to reach places

Rats can harbor and transmit serious diseases

They can also introduce disease-carrying parasites such as fleas, lice and ticks into your home

Black or brown in color

7 to 10 inches long, with a long tail, large ears and eyes pointed nose

Body is smaller and sleek than Norway Rats

Fur is smooth

Nests inside and under buildings, or in piles of rubbish or wood

Excellent climber that can often be found in the upper parts of structure

Can squeeze through openings only 1/2-inch wide

Becomes sexually mature at four months

Producing four to six litters per year of four to eight young each

Lives up to one year

Shows a preference for grains, fruits, nuts and can squeeze through openings only 1/2-inch wide

Carrier of many serious diseases vegetables