When you think about rats in Michigan, the large and burly Norway rat might come to mind first—but they’re not the only rodents causing problems. Roof rats are sneaky critters that have become a growing concern for homeowners, especially in places like Detroit, Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo.
Let’s take a closer look at roof rats—how to identify them, why they’re in your home, and what you can do to stop an infestation in its tracks.
Key Takeaways
- Roof rats are small, dark rodents with long tails that climb well and nest in high, hidden spaces.
- These rats chew wires, ruin belongings, and spread sickness through droppings, making them dangerous for your home.
- Common signs include droppings, scratching sounds, gnaw marks, nests in hidden spots, and greasy smudge marks on walls.
- A rat problem needs sealed entry points, well-placed traps, clean spaces, and help from a pest control expert.
What Are Roof Rats?
Roof rats, or black rats, are smaller and sleeker than Norway rats. Their fur is typically dark brown or black, and they have large ears and long tails. Because of their slender build, they’re excellent climbers—often making their way into eaves and crawl spaces.
You might also hear them called ship rats, and they’ve been around for centuries, hitching rides on ships and spreading to new areas.
Why Are Roof Rats a Problem in Michigan Homes?
Roof rats might be small, but they can cause big problems for homeowners across Michigan. Here’s why they’re more than just a nuisance.
They Damage Your Home
Roof rats are constantly chewing—on wood, plastic, and even electrical wires.
This can lead to serious issues like damaged insulation, ruined belongings in storage, and even fire hazards from exposed wiring.
They Can Make You Sick
Roof rats leave behind droppings and urine that can carry dangerous illnesses like hantavirus. If they get into your pantry or kitchen, they can contaminate food and surfaces.
They Multiply Fast
These rats breed quickly, which means a couple of roof rats can turn into a full rodent infestation in no time.
Because they like to stay hidden in places, you might not even realize how many are living with you until the pest problem gets out of hand.
Signs of a Roof Rat Infestation
If they have moved into your home, they won’t stay hidden for long. Here are some of the most common signs that point to a roof rat problem:
- Gnawing marks on wood, plastic, or even electrical wires.
- Rat droppings, which are about ½ inch long with pointed ends.
- Scratching or scurrying noises coming from the attic or walls.
- Nesting material like shredded paper, insulation, or fabric in hidden areas.
- Grease marks or chew marks around entry points.
How to Get Rid of Roof Rats
Dealing with a rat problem requires a thorough approach. Start by cutting off access and removing food sources. After that, here’s how to help keep them out of your home:
Seal Entry Points
Use caulk or steel wool to seal up small holes and cracks in your home’s exterior, especially around eaves, vents, and where pipes enter the house.
Set Traps Strategically
Place traps in attics, crawl spaces, or near signs of activity. Bait with something tempting—peanut butter works well because rats are drawn to its scent and stickiness.
Clean Up Attractants
Roof rats are omnivores and will eat just about anything.
Store pet food in sealed containers, clean up spills, and keep garbage covered. Also, keep woodpiles away from the house and trim back tree branches that touch your roof.
When to Call for Professional Rodent Control
At Pest Pros of Michigan, we know how to handle roof rats and other pests common to the Midwest. Our service center teams use proven techniques to identify entry points, eliminate current infestations, and prevent rats from returning.
Plus, we can help you clean up safely after a rat infestation—including the removal of contaminated insulation and droppings, which may carry hantavirus and other harmful bacteria.
Need help with rat control? Contact us today for professional, reliable service tailored to your needs.
