Professional Rat Control Services

You may not always see rats directly, but here are the key signs our technicians look for:

• Droppings – large, dark pellets found in groups.
• Gnaw marks – deep chewing damage on food packaging or building materials.
• Smear marks – dark, greasy tracks along walls or entry points.
• Noise – scratching or scurrying sounds, often at night.
• Odour – a strong, musky smell from urine or nests.
• Damage – chewed wiring, insulation, or wooden structures.

Appearance

Rats are commonly brown or grey with lighter undersides. Their tails are shorter than their bodies, thick, and darker on top. They have blunt snouts, small furry ears, and a strong, muscular build. An adult rat weighs around 450 g, making them much larger than mice and more destructive.

Droppings

Rat droppings are around 2 cm long – much larger than mouse droppings – and are typically found in clusters. They can produce up to 40 droppings per day. If you notice large, dark droppings around food areas, cupboards, or along walls, this is a clear sign of an active infestation that needs professional attention.

Behaviour and Lifecycle

Rats are cautious, intelligent, and creatures of habit. They use the same paths (known as “runs”) and leave greasy smear marks along walls and skirting boards. They gnaw through wood, plastic, and even soft metals while searching for food or nesting spots.

Although their lifespan is only 6-12 months, they reproduce rapidly – with multiple litters each year and up to 10 young per litter. This means a small problem can turn into a major infestation in just a few weeks.