This is normally the first noticeable sign of roof rats, and many people can hear the rats without trying to.
Smudges will be most noticeable in high-traffic areas, like rafters that go from one side of the attic to another.
You’ll likely notice droppings in the attic ceiling and insulation, so be sure to check there.
Be careful around chewed wires, as they can sometimes still carry electricity. Don’t touch the wires unless you are wearing thick rubber gloves and safety equipment.
If you can’t find anything from the inside, use a ladder to access the roof from the outside. From that perspective, you might be able to see gaps in your roofing or small holes that the rats are squeezing through. Keep track of the hole locations by taking pictures and marking them with bright chalk so that you remember where to patch later. You can typically tell if these holes are active because you’ll see grease marks around them from the oil on the rats’ fur, or there may be chew marks where the rats have made the holes bigger. [8] X Expert Source Chris ParkerFounder, Parker Eco Pest Control Expert Interview. 15 January 2021.
Make sure that your bolts are tight and secure around the plates to prevent them from coming loose over time.
Caulking is used to seal windows, so it will hold up against varying temperatures as well as moisture and wind. Be sure that all holes are blocked and sealed before and after setting any traps.
Baits like peanut butter, raisins, and nuts are extremely effective for luring roof rats. Snap traps are the most effective and easy way to trap and kill roof rats. Poisoning the rats can cause unwanted smells from rats who crawl into inaccessible areas and die.
Be sure to check glue boards every day, as they will need to be replaced more often than snap traps. Sometimes, rats can break free from glue boards by wiggling, or even gnawing off their own limbs. If you notice this is becoming a problem, switch to snap traps.
It might be helpful to keep a few traps set on rafters just in case some rats find a way into the area again. This will keep them from starting nests and deter other rats from entering the attic.
This is particularly helpful if you have rats that you can’t get rid of. If they’re coming back, chances are they’ve found another opening. The opening will allow them to escape from the smell and give you time to find and seal it.
Be sure to inform the exterminator of steps that you’ve already taken to trap the rats and seal off the attic.
