Plano
is growing and so is our rodent
population! New construction, weather and property maintenance are just three
conditions contributing to this population boom.
New Construction
drives rodents away from their natural
habitats to seek new shelters in stormdrain systems, residential and business
properties.
Weather
determines the activity of rodents.
Mild weather means more breeding. A Norway rat can produce up to seven
litters per year with up to twelve young per litter. Dry weather will
cause stormdrains and creeks to dry out driving rodents to seek water in
swimming pools, birdbaths and outdoor pet water bowls.
Property
Maintenance can
attract or repel rodents. Stack firewood or lumber at least twelve inches
off the ground and keep yards and alleyways free of rubbish and trash. Inspect
the outside of homes or businesses for small openings, using caulk or sealant
foam to prevent rodent entry (especially around air conditioning units or heat
pumps). Look for chew or gnaw marks around the bottom of doors, windows,
in walls, floors, along wooden fences, boxes, crates, and food packaging.
Check narrow, enclosed pathways, such as flowerbeds, for rodent paths.
Inspect air conditioning or swimming pool pump concrete pads for rodent
droppings. Trim trees from homes to discourage attic entry.
Elimination
of food, water and shelter sources can help control rodent infestation.
Rats and mice will eat almost anything, preferring grains. Seal trash and
garbage in metal, thick rubber or plastic containers. Keep the lids on
recycling and garbage carts closed at all times. Maintain areas around
commercial dumpsters. Never leave pet food out for extended periods
of time. Eliminate water sources by repairing leaky faucets and not
over-watering yards and landscaping. Store attic items in
rodent-proof containers instead of cardboard boxes. Practice good
property maintenance.
For existing rodent populations,
baits and traps can be used. These products may be purchased at
feed, garden and "do-it-yourself" pest control stores. Always
follow label directions for usage and disposal of unused portions. When
using baits, bait boxes should be used to help prevent poisoning of children and
pets. A professional pest control service may be most advantageous in
controlling rodents.
Rats
are not a known carrier of rabies.
Rats are carriers of fleas, which are associated with typhus and plague.
Rats are noted for being a carrier of Hantavirus in their urine, feces, and
saliva; although Texas does not have frequent cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary
Syndrome. Care must be given when handling live and dead rodents.
When disposing of rodents and their wastes, the following steps should be taken:
- Before cleaning, use and
insecticide to kill any fleas.
- Wear HEPA mask ( high
efficiency particulate air) when cleaning in confined areas.
- Do not touch rodents or their
wastes with bare hands.
- Pour bleach solutions on dead
rodents, their nests, and their wastes.
- Place rodents and other
materials in plastic bags and dispose in outdoor dumpsters.
- Disinfect any surfaces where
rodents or their wastes are found.
- Wash hands thoroughly.
By: Mike Hodnett, R.S.,
Environmental Health Specialist