Roof rats, also known as black rats, are a common pest in Sacramento. Known for their agility, these rodents are skilled climbers and often make their homes in attics, roofs, and trees. Left unchecked, roof rats can cause significant property damage and pose health risks. Below, we discuss how to identify and eliminate these nuisances. When you need pest control services in Sacramento or the surrounding towns, contact Direct Hit Pest Control.

What Are Roof Rats?

Roof rats are typically smaller and slimmer than Norway rats, with long tails and large ears. They measure 6–8 inches long (excluding the tail) and are usually black or dark brown. These nocturnal rodents are highly active at night, scavenging for fruits, nuts, pet food, and even garbage. They can quickly infest homes through small openings, wreaking havoc on insulation, wiring, and stored items.

Signs of Roof Rats

Noises in the attic or walls - Scratching or scurrying sounds, especially at night.

Droppings - Small, spindle-shaped droppings around food storage areas or along walls.

Chewed materials - Gnawed wood, wires, or plastic in the attic or garage.

Grease marks - Smudges along walls or rooflines where they travel.

How to Get Rid of Roof Rats

Seal Entry Points - Inspect your home for cracks, vents, or gaps around the roofline. Use steel wool or caulking to close openings as small as 1/4 inch.

Remove Attractants - Keep trash sealed, store food securely, and clean up fallen fruits or nuts from trees.

Trim Vegetation - Cut back tree branches and shrubs at least 4 feet from your home to reduce access points.

Set Traps - Snap traps or bait stations placed in attics or along rodent pathways can be effective.

Call Professionals - If the infestation persists, pest control experts can provide targeted solutions to eliminate roof rats safely and effectively.

Prevention Is Key

Prevention is the key to stopping roof rat infestations. Regularly inspect your home, maintain cleanliness, and act promptly at the first signs of activity. In Sacramento’s climate, roof rats are a year-round concern but can become especially troublesome in cooler months, so staying vigilant will help protect your property and peace of mind.

Pest Control in Sacramento

Direct Hit Pest Control provides professional residential and commercial pest control in Sacramento, Rio Linda, and the surrounding California communities. Our team has more than 30 years of pest control experience, giving us the knowledge and know-how to provide the highest quality services. We routinely help our clients with insect infestation and prevention. If something unwanted is living in your trees, yard, or under your roof, it’s best to let a professional pest control technician remove it so you don’t put yourself at risk of bites or other injuries. To request an estimate or more information about pest control in Sacramento, give our friendly team a call at (916) 992-6870 today.