What are Roof Rats?

Roof rats, also known as black rats or ship rats, are agile rodents that prefer to nest in elevated areas such as attics, rafters, and trees. They are slimmer and more athletic than Norway rats, with large ears, pointed noses, and long, scaly tails that are longer than their bodies. These nocturnal pests are excellent climbers and often gain access to homes and businesses from rooftops, power lines, or overhanging branches. Roof rats feed on fruits, nuts, grains, and stored food, making them a serious problem in both residential and commercial properties.

Signs of Roof Rat Infestation

• Gnaw marks on food packaging, wires, or wooden structures
• Noises such as scratching or scurrying in attics, ceilings, or walls at night
• Droppings that are spindle-shaped and about half an inch long
• Grease marks along walls, rafters, or beams where rats travel
• Nests made of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden areas
• Damaged fruit or nut trees in your yard

Why They are a Problem

Roof rats are not just a nuisance; they pose significant health and safety risks. They contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine, which can transmit diseases such as salmonella and leptospirosis. Their constant gnawing can damage wires and increase the risk of electrical fires. Outdoors, they destroy fruit crops and garden plants, while indoors, they can quickly multiply and spread throughout a structure. Because they are cautious and avoid traps, infestations can grow rapidly if not addressed.

Where Do They Come From?

Roof rats prefer warm, elevated habitats and often live in trees, tall shrubs, or palm fronds. They typically enter homes and businesses from above, using:

• Overhanging tree branches and vines touching roofs
• Gaps in rooflines, eaves, and soffits
• Vents, chimneys, and utility openings
• Power lines that allow direct access to attics or upper levels

They are particularly common in coastal and urban areas where food and shelter are abundant.

How to Get Rid of Roof Rats at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of roof rats, here are some effective steps you can take:

• Trim tree branches and vegetation at least three feet away from your roof
• Seal gaps in rooflines, vents, chimneys, and soffits with rodent-proof materials
• Store food in airtight containers and clean up crumbs and spills promptly
• Keep garbage bins tightly sealed and remove pet food overnight
• Set traps in attics, rafters, or along known travel paths
• Reduce outdoor attractants by harvesting fallen fruit and maintaining clean yards

These methods may reduce roof rat activity, but due to their agility and intelligence, infestations often require professional treatment for complete elimination.

Roof Rats vs Norway Rats

Roof rats are often mistaken for Norway rats, but they differ in several ways:

• Roof rats are slender with long tails longer than their bodies, while Norway rats are stockier with shorter tails
• Roof rats are skilled climbers and prefer attics and trees, while Norway rats burrow in basements and lower levels
• Roof rat droppings are pointed at the ends, while Norway rat droppings are blunt
• Norway rats are larger and more aggressive, while roof rats are more cautious and harder to trap

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we specialize in rodent exclusion and elimination. Our team inspects your property to locate entry points, nests, and attractants, then applies safe and effective treatments to remove roof rats. We also provide long-term prevention strategies such as sealing access points and reducing conditions that attract rodents. With our professional services, you can protect your home or business from the damage and health risks caused by roof rats.