Also see: [Rat Control]

Rats and Mice

Many rodent species have been linked to disease transmission, but none as frequently as the rat. Of the many species present in southern California, only a few have become notorious for the amount of damage and destruction they cause. But more significantly, is the very real potential for the transmission of diseases to people, either directly from the rodent, or from the parasites they harbor.

Bubonic plague is perhaps the most notorious of the rodent-borne diseases. Historically, 1.5 million people - nearly 1/3 of England's population - died during the mid-1300's from a plague outbreak which came to be known as the "Black Death". Rodents living in close association with humans carried the fleas responsible for plague transmission. As the rats became ill and died, their fleas left in search of a new host - often times people, thereby further spreading the disease.

Murine typhus is another flea-borne disease. Typhus is endemic in southern California's wild rodents. The rat flea is capable of spreading this disease to other mammals including opossums, domestic house cats - and their owners. Feeding of wildlife such as opossums and raccoons significantly increases a residents risk of flea-borne disease.

Two rat species, both introduced into the New World, are routinely associated with human habitations and thus of greatest concern.

The Roof Rat (Rattus rattus), also known as the tree or black rat, is a dark colored rat with a long tail and rather large ears. It can often be found nesting in attic or wall spaces, thick vegetation, and palm trees. This agile rodent moves through neighborhoods using utility lines and fences as runways. The roof rat prefers to feed on many of the fruits, nuts, snails, and pet foods commonly found in residential neighborhoods.

The Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus), is a slightly larger, lighter colored species having a tail shorter than its body length and smaller ears. This rat routinely nests in underground burrows and may be found nesting in thick vegetation or under building foundations. They prefer to feed more on fatty or proteinatious foods such as meat scraps, pet foods, garbage, and cereal grains.