Have you noticed the signs of a rat problem? Rodent droppings, bite marks of food packages, and small holes in walls are clues that you may have a rat problem.
Rats are potential carriers of diseases like the hantavirus. Unfortunately, in recent years we have seen an uptick in the rat populations throughout the Okanagan region in British Columbia. After explaining the causes of rat population growth around Kelowna, we'll provide important resources so you can contact a quality pest control service.
What's Behind the Recent Rat Problem?
If you haven't noticed signs of a rat problem, you probably will soon. Urban cities have long been common habitats for rodents. Climate change is creating warmer climates for many large cities across the globe and within Canada.
So why is the City of Kelowna seeing a growing rat problem?
Mild Weather
Zoe Kirk with the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen recently said the uptick in the local rat and mice population can be tied to mild weather. Cold weather usually helps control the rat population, she said.
Urban Habitats
Kirk also said that the areas around Kelowna have created a lot of buildings in the native environment of rats. These buildings provide safe places for rats to harbour. Humans are basically attracting rats, Kirk said.
Gutters and under hanging trees are good habitats for rats, Kirk added.
High Mating Rate of Rats
One mating pair of rats can theoretically produce nearly 1,000 offspring within one year, she added. Within a six-hour period, a female rat can mate many times.
Female rats are also fertile at a young age — typically around three months. The average litter size for a rate is five to six babies.
Rats Can Eat Pretty Much Anything Humans Do
Rats live next to human populations for a reason. Many of the foods that rats eat are disposed of by people. This includes grains, fish, and meat.
As the population near Kelowna grows, so too does the potential source of food for rats.
Rats Are Tough
As far as pests go, rats are one of the toughest and most resilient pests out there. They can tread water for three days, and they are very good at regulating their body temperatures. This is one reason why you'll want to hire professionals to handle your growing rat problem.
What to Watch Out For
The City of Kelowna's website says that a range of rodents is native to the Okanagan region. The house mouse is distinguished by pointed ears and a long tail while the field vole is small and stocky. The deer mouse can be recognized by its rounded ears.
The most common rat is the black rat, which is also known as the roof rat.
The licensed technicians at The Bugman Pest Control are here to help you manage and prevent mice and rat problems. Our Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM) has helped residents in Kelowna safely address mouse and rat infestations.
Common Signs of a Rat Problem
The following signs may leave you muttering, "We have a rat problem."
Rat droppings are small and cylindrical in shape. Rats leave droppings up to 180 times a day, so these telltale signs of a rat problem are easy to see.
Gnaw marks are another common sign of a rat infestation. Rodents constantly gnaw because their teeth are constantly growing. Gnawing can cause damage to wires or house structures.
Call an Experienced Pest Control Company
Viral videos of rat problems are yet another reminder that rat populations can explode when given the right environment. Rats are more than a nuisance. Rodents can destroy parts of your home, and they are known carriers of potentially dangerous diseases.
Following the recent unseasonably warm winter, residents of the Okanagan region can expect to have to deal with an ongoing rat problem. You can trust the licensed technicians at The Bugman Pest Control to ensure that rodents don't invade your home and property. Give us a call today for a free quote.