Did you know that Australia has as many as 60 different species of native rodents? In urban areas, black rats are very commonplace, and it's not unusual for them to take up residence in the average family home. If you have a sneaking suspicion that you've got unwanted lodgers, what should you be on the lookout for?
Human Benefactors
Rats have a single goal in life: to take advantage of waste generated by human beings. This is why they are so prevalent in any urban environment and also difficult to get rid of when they find a food source.
Rat City
The vermin may live in many different places outside your home. They could be in or around garbage cans, hiding beneath drain covers or in the corner of the garage or underneath your deck. If they've migrated inside, they could be in the attic space above. Here they will use shredded up loft insulation to pad their nests and take advantage of this warm area where rising heat is trapped.
If they are downstairs, they are more likely to be close to appliances that give off heat. For example, they may be out of sight behind a stove or washing machine, especially if a tiny hole in a floorboard leads into a cavity wall.
Worrying Signs
You may have heard some strange noises at night. Black rats will often scratch as they pad their nest in the attic above your bedroom, while brown rats can sometimes grind their teeth, producing a distinctive noise.
Detective Work
Start by looking in the attic, especially if you haven't been active for some time. If they have made their nest using loft insulation, cardboard or other materials, it'll be instantly recognisable. If there is nothing untoward there, get out some talcum powder and sprinkle it liberally around and behind your kitchen appliances. In the morning, check for tell-tale footprints and tracks to see if you do have unwanted visitors. You can also look for droppings that may be concentrated in one area.
Urgent Action
If you still think that you have a problem with a rat infestation, you must take action as soon as possible. They will not only create damage, but they can carry diseases and are generally unpleasant creatures. So, get on the phone and call a local rat control service. They will have the knowledge and methods to help eliminate your rat problem.