Greater Orlando and Central Florida Area Residents on Alert for Invading Rats
As Greater Orlando and Central Florida area residents clean up from heavy rains and flooding caused by Tropical Storm Debby, there’s a new concern: wildlife, particularly rats, seeking dry shelter. These downpours have driven rats from their natural habitats, leading to potential infestations in homes and businesses.
Why Do Rats Seek Shelter During Heavy Rains?
Rats are resourceful and adaptable creatures. During periods of heavy rain, they often abandon their flooded burrows and nests in search of drier environments. Unfortunately, this means they may invade homes, businesses, and other structures, posing health risks and causing property damage.
Natural Instincts Drive Rats Indoors
Rats, like many other animals, have a natural instinct to find safety and comfort. When their natural habitats are disturbed by heavy rains, they look for alternative shelters that are dry and safe. Buildings, with their abundance of food and warmth, become prime targets.
Potential Risks of Rat Infestations
Health Hazards
Rats can carry various diseases that are harmful to humans, such as leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonella. Their presence can contaminate food and surfaces, posing significant health risks.
Structural Damage
Rats have strong teeth and can gnaw through wood, insulation, and even electrical wiring. This can lead to costly repairs and potential fire hazards.
Rapid Reproduction
Rats reproduce quickly. A small infestation can grow into a major problem in a short period, making it essential to address any signs of rats immediately.
How to Protect Your Property
Simple proactive DIY measures can help prevent rat infestations:
Seal Entry Points
Inspect your property for any gaps, cracks, or holes that rats could use to enter. Seal these with appropriate materials that rats cannot chew through to block their access.
Eliminate Food Sources
Store food in airtight containers and ensure garbage bins are securely closed. Keep kitchens, dining areas, and garage or carport areas clean to avoid attracting rats.
Maintain Cleanliness
Regularly clean and declutter areas where rats might hide, such as basements, attics, and storage spaces.
Use Rat Repellents
Consider using natural or commercial rat repellents around the perimeter of your property to deter rats from entering.
Consult Professionals – Get Them Out. Keep Them Out.
If you suspect a rat infestation or want to take preventative measures, contact Critter Control®, your local Greater Orlando area pest control professional since 1984. We can provide tailored solutions to keep your property rat-free. And remember, if you do seek professional assistance, there is only one Critter Control®.
Stay Prepared. Stay Safe.
At Critter Control®, as we monitor the resulting wildlife issues impacting homeowners and businesses, it’s important for you to stay informed and prepared. By taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your home or business from the unwanted intrusion of rats and other invading wildlife during this period of heavy rain. Stay safe, and let’s weather the storm aftermath together! Call (407) 295-7194 and schedule an inspection to receive a free rat exclusion estimate.
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Founded in 1983, Critter Control® was developed around an entirely new vision for resolving nuisance wildlife and pest problems. All of our locations consistently practice humane wildlife management. We handle animals large and small, with a focus on vertebrate pests such as squirrels, rats, mice, snakes, raccoons, bats and a variety of birds. Here in Greater Orlando we also specialize in environmentally friendly pest control services. Our services focus on getting rid of wildlife and pests, repairing any damage they may have caused – then keeping them from re-entering your home or business.
We provide wildlife control and animal removal services for:
• Homeowners
• Property Management Companies
• Industrial and Commercial Clients
• Municipalities
• Fortune 500 Companies
