If you’ve noticed signs of rats outside your home, you’re not alone. Louisiana’s warm climate and abundant water sources make it an attractive environment for rodents. But having rats near your property isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a potential health risk.
Here’s how you can tackle outdoor rat problems effectively and safely.
Key Takeaways
- Access to food, water, and shelter attracts rats and must be reduced to keep them away.
- A clean yard and sealed gaps help prevent rats from nesting and hiding near your home.
- Effective rat control includes using traps, bait stations, and natural repellents in strategic areas.
- Professional pest control may be necessary if signs of rats persist despite your removal efforts.
HOW TO GET RID OF RATS OUTSIDE
1. Remove Food and Water Sources
Rats are attracted to places with readily available food and water, so reducing these resources is key to keeping them away.
Start by cleaning up food waste—make sure garbage cans are tightly sealed, pick up fallen fruits, and regularly clean out compost bins. If you have bird feeders, place them away from your home and use a tray to catch spilled birdseed, or consider pausing bird feeding until the rat problem is resolved.
Also, avoid leaving pet food outside overnight and store it in sealed containers to prevent attracting rodents.
2. Address Shelter and Hiding Spots
Rats are drawn to areas where they can safely build nests, so it’s essential to eliminate potential hiding spots.
Keep your landscaping tidy by regularly trimming overgrown shrubs and vines that provide cover for rats. Clear out debris such as wood piles, old furniture, or yard waste that could serve as nesting sites.
For added protection, rat-proof outbuildings like garages, sheds, or crawl spaces by sealing gaps with durable materials like steel wool or hardware cloth.
3. Use Control Methods
Once you’ve made your yard less inviting, it’s time to take active steps to control the rat population.
Rat traps like snap traps are effective and humane when used correctly. Bait them with peanut butter and place them along rat runways or near entry points. Rat bait stations are another highly effective option but should be used carefully in areas accessible to children or pets.
For a more natural approach, natural repellents like peppermint oil or cotton balls soaked in vinegar can temporarily repel these pests with the strong scents they hate.
4. Track for Dead Rats
Rats can sometimes die in hidden areas, creating unpleasant odors and attracting other pests. Regularly inspect traps and dispose of dead rodents promptly using gloves.
5. Prevent Future Rat Problems
To keep rats from coming back, follow these long-term prevention tips:
- Seal Entry Points: Use caulk or hardware cloth to close gaps in fences, walls, or foundations.
- Maintain Your Yard: Keep grass short, store trash in secured bins, and regularly inspect your property for signs of rat activity.
- Schedule Regular Pest Control: Partnering with a professional pest service ensures comprehensive and ongoing protection.
SIGNS YOUR EFFORTS TO REMOVE RATS AREN’T WORKING
If rats are still lingering in your yard despite your efforts, watch for these telltale signs of ongoing infestation:
- Droppings: Rat droppings are small, dark, and resemble a grain of rice. They’re often found near food sources like trash cans or bird feeders.
- Gnaw Marks: Rats chew on wood, plastic, and even wires. Outdoor furniture, fences, and storage areas are common gnawing sites.
- Runways: Rats create paths or runways along walls, fences, or through vegetation. These paths often appear worn down.
- Rat Activity: You might spot rats at dawn or dusk, especially around pet food bowls or garbage cans.
WHEN TO CALL THE EXPERTS FOR OUTDOOR RAT CONTROL
DIY methods can only go so far. If you’re dealing with a persistent rat infestation or need help securing your property, it’s time to call for pest control help.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we specialize in rodent control tailored to the needs of Louisiana homeowners. From exclusion work to rodent bait stations, we have the tools and expertise to handle outdoor rat problems effectively.
Don’t let outdoor rats turn into a bigger issue. Contact us today for same-day service and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.