People are being urged to keep an eye out for rats as dropping temperatures could drive them indoors. With much of Scotland placed under a yellow warning for snow and ice, it won't just be people looking for a bit of shelter.
And, according to data analysis from Rentokil Pest Control, rat activity within commercial premises has risen 30 per cent over the last four years. The experts warn that activity could increase in the coming weeks, especially as the cold sets in, following an exceptionally mild October.
They are asking home and business owners to keep an eye out in their lofts and attic spaces as that is where rats are commonly spotted. They can cause damage as they will shred available materials such as loft insulation, cardboard and other soft items to make their nests.
As reported by Wales Online, the things to look out for include:
- shredded loft insulation
- chewed items
- concentrations of droppings
Each rat will produce up to 40 droppings a night, and they will look like large brown spindles. They can often be found in the corners of rooms or boxes.
Paul Blackhurst, Head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control said: "Rodents are a key public health concern, which can cause considerable damage to both residential and business premises, as well as business’ reputation.
"After a mild autumn we’re expecting to see a surge in enquiries as soon as the temperature drops, as rats will be looking for somewhere warm to spend the winter. While most of us may associate rats with sewers and holes in the ground, brown rats are very agile climbers, and can be found in loft spaces."
He added: "When you’re up in the loft, there are a few simple things to look out for; nests, droppings, signs of gnawing, and greasy rub marks on joists. If any of these are spotted, then pest control experts should be called in to deal with the problem sustainably and efficiently.
"Pest specialists can use tools and technology to monitor and safely eliminate any rodent activity, helping make sure that the only footsteps you may hear on your roof this Christmas, are from Santa and his reindeer."
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