The roof rat is a rodent, commonly found in warmer climates. These rats are expert climbers and like to nest off the ground, here in Florida often in palm trees. With palms nearby, you might be unknowingly giving roof rats a cozy place to live and easy access to your space. Because they’re so skilled at climbing, palm rats can easily access roofs and attics, causing problems for many homeowners.

What is a Palm Rat?

A palm rat, also known as a roof rat or fruit rat, is a type of rodent that loves warm climates. It has a sleek body with black or dark brown fur and a long, scaly tail. They’re common in tropical areas like Florida, where they search for fruits and nuts to eat. These rats can be a nuisance around homes, especially when they invade trees or find ways into buildings.

Health & Property Hazards Posed by Palm Rats

Palm rats can cause several problems for homeowners. Here’s why they’re a concern:

Property Damage: Palm rats gnaw on wood, electrical wires, insulation, and even pipes. This can lead to expensive repairs and, in some cases, dangerous situations like electrical fires.
Health Risks: Palm rats can carry and spread diseases through their droppings, urine, and saliva. Some of the illnesses they may spread include leptospirosis, salmonella, and even rat-bite fever. Their waste can contaminate surfaces and food supplies, making their presence a health hazard.
Food Contamination: These rodents are always searching for food, especially fruits and nuts. They often enter homes, garages, and sheds, contaminating food supplies with their droppings and urine. This not only wastes food but also increases the risk of illness.

Keeping food sealed, cleaning up regularly, and sealing entry points are helpful steps, but calling a pest control expert is often the best solution for effective rodent control.

Watch for Signs of Roof Rats

Even if you don’t think you have roof rats, it’s a good idea to look out for any signs of an infestation. There are several ways to identify the presence of these pests, including:

Chewed branches on trees
Citrus fruit skins left behind with bite marks
Well-used paths through plants and around your yard
Spotting rats in trees, often at night
Larger droppings than what mice leave
Sounds of movement in your walls or ceiling, like gnawing or scratching

Here are some helpful ways to prevent palm rats from setting up in your yard or home:

Trim Trees and Shrubs: Keep branches trimmed back from your roof and walls. Palm rats use trees as pathways to enter attics and other high spaces.
Eliminate Food Sources: Store pet food, birdseed, and other items in secure containers. Pick up any fallen fruit from trees since fruit is a big attraction for these rodents.
Secure Your Trash: Always use lids on garbage cans to prevent palm rats from scavenging. Consider keeping cans inside a secure shed if possible.
Seal Entry Points: Look for cracks, gaps, or holes around your home. Palm rats can squeeze through very small spaces, so sealing up any openings can help keep them out.
Remove Clutter: Clear away piles of wood, unused boxes, and other debris. Rats love hiding in these areas, so keeping your yard and home clean helps deter them.

Professional Pest Control Services

If palm rats or rodents are causing trouble, Capelouto Termite & Pest Control is here to help. With over 50 years of experience, we’re Tallahassee area’s largest and most trusted pest control company. Contact us for a free estimate.

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