Dare County offers guidance on rodent control

In response to local concerns related to rat populations, the Dare County Department of Health & Human Services (DCDHHS) would like to provide guidance for eliminating potential infestations.  

Because rats and other rodents travel freely between properties, it is important to keep in mind that addressing rodent concerns takes a strategic, collective effort that focuses on eliminating food, water and shelter.  

“Addressing rodent concerns requires a coordinated, community-wide effort. By taking simple, proactive steps to eliminate food sources, reduce potential nesting areas and prevent access to buildings, residents and businesses can work together to reduce rodent populations and protect the health and well-being of our community,” said DCDHHS Director Dr. Sheila Davies. 

Signs of a potential rat infestation include droppings; gnaw marks on wood, plastic or wiring; grease trails along walls; and scratching sounds at night.  

DCDHHS is asking that residents and businesses secure all household and public garbage in heavy-duty plastic or metal bins with tight-fitting lids. In addition, residents are urged to remove outdoor pet food; pick up daily pet waste; secure chicken or livestock feed overnight, clean up fallen fruit and bring bird feeders inside overnight. 

Compost bins should be on elevated or sealed foundations and be lined with hardware cloth, or sealed tumbler composters should be used as an alternative. Avoid adding meat, dairy, or cooked foods to piles. 

Other steps residents can take include eliminating potential nesting sites by clearing yard debris, elevating firewood 18 inches off the ground and trimming tree branches back at least three feet from structures. Residents should consider keeping lawns mowed short, trimming dense shrubs or ground cover such as English ivy, and clearing away clutter or unused furniture. 

To prevent indoor nesting, residents and business owners should also inspect foundations and seal all holes that are larger than one-fourth of an inch using stainless steel mesh or hydraulic concrete.  

And finally, to ensure the protection of neighborhood pets and local wildlife, avoid using loose poisons or glue traps. Instead, utilize heavy-duty snap traps housed inside tamper-resistant bait stations.  

Residents and business owners should consider contacting local pest control companies for additional support if needed.