Managing rat problems

There are many factors to consider when it comes to managing pests, but the important thing is to get to the root cause of the problem. All Bug Busters' technicians are skilled at detecting evidence of a rodent infestation, identifying the other species, recognizing entry points, and determining the best course of action based on your individual situation.

Rodents can cause extensive damage to structures by chewing on electrical wiring and insulation in roof void spaces, increasing fire hazards. Additionally, they pose a significant health risk by contaminating food and spreading diseases, often attracting other pests in the process.

For thorough and effective rodent control in Perth homes, Bug Busters, a trusted pest control company, uses a range of toxic and non-toxic rodent removal methods. Our team is committed to delivering great service while ensuring a pest-free environment.

Baiting

Rat bait stations are small devices that hold rat poison, but are designed to prevent children and pets from coming in contact. The rat will consume the poison, but will not die inside the bait station and instead, goes back to its nest where it dies 24-48 hours later.

Baiting is one of the most effective strategies for rat pest control, particularly in urban environments where infestations are common. Our rodent control specialists strategically place bait stations in high-activity zones to ensure maximum effectiveness. Regular monitoring and replenishment of bait stations help maintain long-term control, preventing re-infestations.

Trapping

Rat traps come in a range of designs, from snap traps that kill the rat instantly, to catch and release traps that allow the rodent to be removed from the home and released back into native wildlife.

Trapping is an essential part of our rat control strategy, especially in homes where non-toxic solutions are preferred. In addition to traditional rat traps, we also provide humane trapping options for mice control, ensuring that smaller rodent species are effectively removed. Combining trapping with pest treatment techniques like exclusion and sanitation significantly reduces the chances of reinfestation.

 

How To Get Rid Of Rats Outside Your Home

You stand a better chance of stopping rats from damaging property by keeping your outside areas clean and tidy.

If you have fruit trees, remove any fallen fruit, and also clear away piles of leaves and empty your compost bins regularly. If you keep pet food outside in the shed, be sure to seal it up so that it's secure from rodents.

Rodents are attracted to easily accessible food sources, so limiting their access is key to effective control. Using secure bins and properly managing waste can help eliminate rats before they become a major issue. It’s also important to remove potential nesting sites, such as wood piles, cluttered garden sheds, and overgrown vegetation, to prevent future infestation.

You should also seal any entry points where rodents may be entering your home.

Small gaps in walls, doors, or roofing can be easy access points for rats and mice. Sealing these with rodent-proof materials will help control rats before they move indoors. For added protection, consider using mouse bait in outdoor areas where rodents are active. Since rats die after consuming bait, it’s crucial to place it strategically to avoid risks to pets and wildlife. Professional pest control Perth services can ensure safe and effective placement to protect human health while removing all the rats from your property.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Will rodent baiting harm my pets?

We generally bait in roof spaces and as such are out of reach for pets. If we're baiting internally or externally, we always use plastic lockable rodent stations to ensure pets or children can't access the baits.

The lethal dose (LD50) of most rodenticide used in rodent control treatments is quite high, and most pets would need to consume at least 200g of pure bait per KG of body weight which would be highly unlikely. Pets will not die from eating a rodent that has died from eating bait.

Bug Busters provides quick and expert rodent control services in Perth, targeting rats and mice to keep your property secure.

Will you return to remove dead rodents after a treatment?

Generally, rodents will leave roof spaces in search of water after they've consumed bait and will die outside.

On some occasions, rodents will die in a roof space or under a subfloor. Should you require rat removal, Bug Busters can attend and attempt to remove the carcass for $88, however, sometimes it's not possible to reach them if they're in the corner of a roof or have fallen down a cavity.

How do I know if I have a rat infestation?

Signs of a rat infestation include hearing rats running in your roof or walls, finding droppings near food products, and noticing gnaw marks on furniture or wires. Rats are excellent swimmers and can enter homes through drains, making them even harder to keep out. A sudden foul smell may also indicate a dead rat in an inaccessible area. If you suspect an infestation, professional rat pest control services can assess and treat the issue before it worsens.

Can rats climb walls to enter my home?

Yes, rats can scale walls, pipes, and even rough surfaces to gain entry. They can also squeeze through small gaps in doors, vents, and roofing. Sealing potential entry points with durable materials like aluminium sheeting can help prevent their access. Regular inspections around your property can ensure early detection and timely rat control measures.

Are glue traps a good option for rodent control?

Glue traps are sometimes used for rat mice control, but they are not always the most humane or effective method. Trapped rodents can suffer prolonged distress, and glue traps may also capture unintended animals like birds or reptiles. Professional pest control services offer more efficient and ethical alternatives, such as baiting and exclusion techniques, to treat the problem effectively.

Where do rats hide inside homes?

Rats prefer dark, undisturbed spaces, making kitchen cupboards, pantries, attic spaces, and subfloors common hiding spots. They seek areas with easy access to food and water, so keeping living areas clean and free from food crumbs is essential. If you suspect rats in your home, professional pest control can identify hiding spots and eliminate them before they cause significant damage.