Mitcham Rat Catchers (CR4): Finding a rat in your house or garden tends to be quite a frightening thing to go through even though its not such a common occurrence in Mitcham in recent times, its certainly something that happens every now and then. Rats tend to breed rather quickly and are likely to cause problems, especially when they are present in numbers. An individual sighting of a lone rat may not be much of a problem, however if you happen to be noticing them often you ought to take action.
There are actually 2 sorts of rat that you might spot in Mitcham, brown (common) rats and black rats. Its relatively unlikely that you will ever see black rats, and if you have seen a rat fairly recently chances are it will have been the more common brown rat (Rattus Norvegicus). Black rats (ship rats) were common at one time and were to blame for the spread of the Great Plague during the 17th Century, they're rather rare nowadays, however where they are seen they're superb climbers, have good hearing, and the females can give birth to between 20 and 100 baby rats in just one year.
The brown rat is bigger than the black rat (Rattus Rattus) and can weigh as much as half a kilo, with a length of around 9". To stop their teeth from growing too long, common brown rats need to keep gnawing at things, and that's why they are the cause of such a lot of damage. Woodwork is particularly vulnerable to their gnawing.
Rats spread disease, gnaw through woodwork, wires, pipes and insulation, leave behind droppings, and will generally cause problems in homes and businesses throughout Mitcham. Homeowners must report rat sightings to their local authority. Or post a report to record pest problems and rat sightings on the .gov website HERE, which will be passed onto the relevant local authority.
You'll sometimes notice the presence of rats not in fact by observing them, but by their indicating their presence in other ways. It could be that you could hear noises coming from a loft, wall or floor, you could encounter distinctive rat holes gnawed in skirting boards or floorboards, you could notice droppings in cupboards or on the floor or you might find a rat's nest in some tucked away location.
To resolve this issue there are two or three approaches that you might consider. You could put poison or traps down yourself, you can bring in a rat catcher or pest removal expert or you could get in touch with the local Mitcham authority or council. In these modern times rat catchers usually come under the category of pest control, and pest control specialists do not only deal with rats but also fleas, wasps, mice, moles, cockroaches, bedbugs and all manner of domestic and garden pests. (Tags: Pest Control Mitcham, Ratcatchers Mitcham )
Rats - Telltale Signs
If you've got suspicions that you might have rats in your home or business, there are several ways that you can find out. You can watch for rub marks where their greasy fur leaves marks on skirting boards and walls, check for gnaw marks in wood, cables and wires, especially in lofts, listen closely for scratching noises emanating from lofts and walls, in particular at night, look out for holes or burrows near to solid surfaces, try to find tail trails or footprints on loose soil or in dusty areas, keep your eyes peeled for faeces (droppings), they look much like large grains of rice and are dark brown.
Rat Bite Wounds
Whilst they are not among the most common injuries sustained by humans in Britain, on the odd occasion rat bites certainly do happen, and the consequences can sometimes be serious. Without doubt, rats can bite humans when they feel cornered or scared, so in a confined space it's wise to stay out of their way, and leave them an easy exit route.
Rat bites have been known to occur in homes where rats are kept as pets, and poking your hand in a rat's cage is certainly an action you should avoid. While they aren't always dangerous, rat bites can become infected or be fatal if they turn into "rat bite fever" (caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis), subsequently they should be avoided where possible. If it isn't treated rapidly "rat bite fever" can result in death, and has has a 10% mortality rate.
Signs of Rat Bite Fever (RBF) - The signs and symptoms of "rat bite fever" can include:
- Joint Pain or Swelling
- Swelling or Redness
- Muscle Pain
- Rashes
- Headaches
- Vomiting
- Fever
In the unlikely event that you are ever bitten by a rat, you'll need to carefully bathe the wounded area, put on some antibiotic ointment, and wrap it with a clean, sterile bandage or gauze. Even if you do not believe that it's too serious, you must have it checked out at your nearest A&E unit, or make an appointment at your local doctor's surgery. Getting a tetanus shot is also recommended, particularly if it is more than 5 years since you've had one.
Diseases Spread by Rats
Humans can contract various diseases from rats, with their saliva, faeces and urine being the main sources of transmission. Diseases such as salmonellosis, rat-bite fever, leptospirosis and hantavirus can be transmitted from rats to humans.
Hantavirus has the potential to cause a fatal respiratory illness. The bacterial infection called leptospirosis can cause flu-like symptoms and, in severe cases, lead to the failure of the liver and kidneys. The bacterial infection rat-bite fever can result in rashes, fever and vomiting and can be transmitted through a rat scratch or bite. Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection that causes abdominal cramps, diarrhea and fever.
It is important to take steps to prevent and control rat infestations in order to reduce the risk of these diseases. Furthermore, the risk of disease transmission can be further increased by the contamination of food and water sources from rat urine and droppings. Rodent-proofing and proper sanitation are key components of effective rat control measures that can prevent and decrease the spread of these diseases and the risk of rat infestations.
Problems With Mice
Mice may be as much of a problem as rats, particularly when they find their way into your home. While a lot smaller, mice still breed quickly, contaminate food, gnaw at stuff and leave droppings. Also, just like rats, setting traps and poisoning are the favoured techniques for dealing with mouse problems in Mitcham. Mitcham rat catchers will also be ready to help you with mouse infestations, so get on the phone or check out BARK to get the issue resolved.
Burrows
A thing that rats like to do is burrow, and their favoured place to dig is next to and under solid structures and objects such as garden shed bases, garages, walkways and terraces. They build extensive burrow networks which provide shelter, a nesting place and food storage. The access points to rat burrows are generally worn smooth by the constant movement, so watch out for holes with smooth sides adjacent to solid structures. When you spot holes but aren't positive that they're rats, they'll usually be two to four inches across. You can find out if rats are present by temporarily filling up the entrance to ascertain if they come back and clear it.
Ultrasonic Pest Control Mitcham
High-frequency sound waves are used in ultrasonic pest control as a method of repelling and deterring pests, such as mice, rats, insects, and other critters. The technology works by emitting sound waves that are above the human hearing range but are audible to pests. A disorienting and uncomfortable environment is produced for pests by the waves, making it hard for them to communicate and navigate.
The effectiveness of ultrasonic pest control devices is open to debate, despite their affordability and ease of use. Some studies have shown that these devices can be effective at repelling certain pests, while others have found that they have virtually no effect. Depending on the pest type, treated area size, and environmental factors, the effectiveness of ultrasonic pest control may vary. As with any pest control technique, it is important to consider all options and consult with a specialist before making a decision. To achieve the best results, ultrasonic pest control should be used alongside other pest management strategies, rather than as the only method.... READ MORE.
Rat Poisons
A rather horrible means by which to get rid of rat infestations is by laying poison. This is accomplished by setting a poisoned bait, that is subsequently ingested by the rat causing its death within a few days. A sizable accumulation of rats can soon be killed with this method so long as the poisoned bait is placed correctly. Typically bromadioline, difenacoum or brodifacoum are the poisons used. Rat poison won't only harm rats, pets could also be affected, consequently care should be taken in its use. Well known brands of rat poison in the United Kingdom include the likes of: Rentokil, RatKil, Propest, Pest Expert, Roshield and Elixir Gardens. (Tags: Rat Poison Mitcham, Rat Poisons Mitcham)
Mitcham Mole Catching
Rat catchers in Mitcham are sometimes also called on to deal with another similar type of pest, ie moles. Moles can cause problems in different ways to rats and aren't despised quite so much. The primary problem with moles is that they cause a fair amount of damage to your garden, especially lawns. The recognizable sight of earth mounds in the middle of a nicely mown lawn is the proof of such activity. The preferred and most humane technique to get rid of moles is by trapping.
Kinds of Rat
There are only two kinds of rat that you're likely to run into in Mitcham, Greater London or anywhere else in the United Kingdom for that matter. These are the Brown Rat and the Black Rat.
The Brown Rat (Rattus Norvegicus)
In Mitcham, the rest of Great Britain and Europe the most widespread type of rat is the brown rat (common rat, Norwegian Rat (Rattus Norvegicus), street rat or sewer rat), this is what you are most likely to spot in your garden or property. This grey or brown coloured rodent reaches lengths of 4" - 9" (plus tail) and weight approximately 140-500g. Now thought to have originated in Central Asia (almost certainly China), this rat was once presumed to have spread from Norway. Brown rats are omnivores (feed on anything) although they prefer to eat cereals, they have an acute sense of hearing but poor eyesight, the females reach sexual maturity in about 5 weeks and often have five litters a year (with as many as 14 in each), they burrow a lot and climb brilliantly.
The Black Rat (Rattus Rattus)
Also not a native species of the UK, the black rat, roof rat or ship rat originally arrived in Europe from India. Most likely traveling in shipments of spices at the height of the Roman Empire, the black rat then spread through Continental Europe. At one time widespread in the United Kingdom, this rat disappeared as the brown rat appeared. The black rat reaches lengths of five to seven inches and weighs about 75g to 230g. Known to cause bubonic plague, tularemia, typhus, salmonella, trichinosis, toxoplasmosis, rat bite fever, Weil's disease and listeria, black rats are prolific spreaders of disease and pathogens.
General Pest Control in Mitcham
In order to safeguard health and property and uphold a pest-free environment, general pest control is very important. In the process, one must prevent and manage common pests such as spiders, cockroaches, rats, ants and flies. Effective pest control measures include frequent inspections, sealing potential entry points, correct waste management, maintaining cleanliness, and using traps or insecticides where necessary. IPM (Integrated Pest Management) techniques prioritise sustainable and eco-friendly approaches to minimise the use of harsh chemicals. The implementation of extensive pest control strategies empowers individuals in Mitcham to establish a living or working environment that is safer and healthier for themselves and those around them. These strategies don't just address existing pest issues but also provide a proactive defense against potential infestations, ensuring long-term pest-free surroundings. (90716 - General Pest Control Mitcham)
Home and business owners with rat problems in Mitcham are often tempted to have a go at resolving it themselves. Therefore, if you find yourself in this situation, what should you do? There are a number of products offered to help you accomplish this and you will purchase rat poisons, rat traps and other products in supermarkets, hardware stores and shops in and around Mitcham. Hiring an experienced Mitcham rat exterminator would however be a better idea, unless of course you know exactly what you're doing, as the right approach is not always the obvious one. The newcomer's use of rat poisons is likely to cause more problems than it solves, as you must be extremely careful with them especially when pets and children are about. If you've got any doubts, call in the professionals for your rat control in Mitcham. (Tags: Rat Removal Mitcham, Rat Exterminator Mitcham, Rat Control Mitcham)
Pest Control Services Mitcham
Mitcham rat catchers can generally help you with rat trapping, rat control, preventive pest control Mitcham, wasp nest removal, wildlife management, domestic rat control, restaurant pest control Mitcham, mouse control, bird nest clearance, pest removal Mitcham, bird proofing, pest control services Mitcham, dead bird removal, cockroach pest conrtol, insect heat treatments in Mitcham, pigeon control, rodent control Mitcham, the removal of contaminated loft insulation, commercial rat control Mitcham, bird pest control Mitcham, guano removal Mitcham, mole catching in Mitcham, squirrel pest control, powder treatments, garden pest control Mitcham, rat poison, dead animal removal, anti-bird spike installation, rat proofing and other pest control in Mitcham, Greater London. These are just a selection of the duties that are undertaken by those specialising in pest control. Mitcham professionals will be delighted to keep you abreast of their entire range of services.
Pest Control Near Mitcham
Also find: The Wythe rat catchers, Hackbridge rat catchers, Eastfields rat catchers, Waddon rat catchers, Carshalton rat catchers, St Helier rat catchers, Rosehill rat catchers, Merton Abbey rat catchers, Mitcham Junction rat catchers, Streatham rat catchers, Morden rat catchers and more. Pest control services are widely available in practically all of these towns and areas. These professionals, with their wealth of knowledge and expertise, ensure effective and efficient resolution of your rodent issue. For handling either a single rat or a larger infestation, these pest control experts have the essential tools and skills to resolve the issue quickly. Local householders can get pest control estimates by clicking here. Are rats causing a problem in your home? Get a quote for pest control today!
Mitcham Rat Control Services
- Domestic Pest Control
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- Pest Removal
- Rat Prevention
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- Mouse Control
- Mole Catchers
Other Pests in Mitcham: Also get help with cockroaches in Mitcham, silverfish in Mitcham, rabbits in Mitcham, bees in Mitcham, fleas in Mitcham, wasps in Mitcham, ants in Mitcham, mice in Mitcham, carpet beetles in Mitcham, pigeons in Mitcham, hornets in Mitcham, clothes moths in Mitcham, moles in Mitcham, bedbugs in Mitcham Greater London.
Rat Catchers Mitcham
Pest Control Near Mitcham
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Rat catchers in CR4 area, and dialling code 020.
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