By: LaJaunie's Pest Control 
October 16, 2025 
Norway rats, also known as brown rats, are common throughout Louisiana. They dig burrows and like dark, hidden spots such as basements and crawl spaces.
In Covington, many homes are situated near woods and waterways, making it easy for rats to find food and shelter nearby.
If you hear noises at night, see gnaw marks, or find droppings, you are likely dealing with Norway rats. Spotting signs early can cut repair costs and protect your family’s health.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, our local technicians know how to identify, treat, and prevent rat infestations quickly, keeping homes across Louisiana pest-free throughout the year.
Key Takeaways
• Norway rats are heavy-bodied rodents that nest in basements, crawl spaces, and ground burrows.
• Common signs include droppings, gnaw marks, and grease trails along walls.
• These rats spread diseases like leptospirosis, salmonella, and rat bite fever.
• Professional pest control in Covington, LA, provides fast and lasting rat control solutions.
Understanding Norway Rats in Covington, LA
Norway rats are larger than roof rats and live at ground level or below. They burrow under foundations and along fences. They thrive near readily available food sources, such as pet food, trash, and compost.
Covington’s mild, humid weather lets Norway rats breed year-round. If not treated, their numbers grow fast.
They are most active at night. They leave droppings, chew marks, and dark grease trails along their paths. If you notice these marks but aren’t sure whether you’re dealing with mice or rats, learn how to check for mice droppings in your home to confirm what’s invading your space.
Our technicians encounter these rats throughout Covington and nearby areas, including Mandeville and Baton Rouge. After heavy rain, rats often move indoors to escape flooding.
Common Signs of a Norway Rat Infestation
When a Norway rat infestation begins, the signs are subtle. Over time, their presence becomes unmistakable.
Droppings and Feces
Fresh rat droppings are dark and pellet-shaped, about the size of a raisin. You will often find them along baseboards, behind appliances, or in pantries. These droppings can carry harmful pathogens, including Salmonella and Leptospirosis, making cleanup dangerous without proper protection.
Gnaw Marks and Damage
Rats must gnaw constantly to wear down their teeth. You might see chew marks on wood, plastic containers, or even electrical wiring. Damaged wires pose a serious fire risk, making professional rodent control crucial.
Burrowing and Ground Activity
Unlike roof rats in attics, Norway rats prefer burrowing at ground level. Look for ground burrows near woodpiles, sheds, or foundations. Active burrows often have smooth, compact edges due to frequent use.
Grease Marks and Tracks
As rats travel their usual routes, the oils from their fur leave dark grease marks along walls, pipes, and baseboards. You may also spot footprints or tail drag marks in dusty areas, such as basements or storage rooms.
Sounds and Odors
Rats are nocturnal, so homeowners often hear scratching, squeaking, or scurrying sounds at night. As numbers increase, a strong, musky odor can accumulate in walls or enclosed spaces.
If scratching is coming from inside the walls, remember that if you got rats in your wall, you can get rid of them by sealing small openings and using safe removal methods.
Health Risks Linked to Norway Rats
A Norway rat infestation is more than a nuisance; it is a health hazard. These rodents contaminate surfaces with their feces and urine, potentially spreading diseases like leptospirosis, salmonella, and hantavirus.
In severe infestations, bites or scratches can transmit rat bite fever. For families with pets or children, addressing a rat problem promptly is essential for safety and peace of mind.
How to Get Rid of Norway Rats in Covington, LA
If you notice any signs of Norway rat activity, take action promptly. Rats reproduce quickly, and what starts as a few can turn into dozens within weeks.
Seal Entry Points
Check the foundation. Seal cracks and gaps around pipes, vents, and doors with caulk and steel wool. Look closely at crawl spaces and utility lines where rats slip in.
Eliminate Food Sources
Store food in sealed containers and keep pet food out of reach. Pick up fallen fruit, sweep up birdseed, and remove standing water to make your yard less inviting to pests.
Use Traps and Bait Stations
Snap traps and bait stations work well when placed along walls or near active burrows. However, improper placement can make them ineffective or unsafe for pets.
For best results, let a professional handle setup and monitoring. Understanding how exterminators get rid of rats can also show why professional methods work better than DIY traps.
Call Professional Pest Control
DIY methods often provide only temporary relief. Our licensed technician at LaJaunie’s Pest Control will inspect your property, identify entry points, and implement a targeted rat control plan using family-safe products and expert techniques.
Our rodent control services in Louisiana include setting bait stations, attic treatments, and long-term prevention to keep your home pest-free. If you’ve noticed scratching overhead, learning how to get rid of (and prevent) rats in your attic can help stop problems before they worsen.
Prevention Tips for Homeowners
Keeping rats out starts with consistent maintenance. Here are simple prevention tips that protect Covington homes year-round.
• Trim tree branches and shrubs away from your roofline.
• Keep garbage cans tightly sealed.
• Clear woodpiles and clutter from around the foundation.
• Fix plumbing leaks that attract rats seeking water.
• Schedule routine pest control service to detect early activity.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we offer ongoing pest control plans that include rat prevention, termite protection, and treatment for other common pests found in Louisiana homes.
Making the Right Choice for Rat Control in Covington, LA
Rats are persistent, and once they find food or shelter, they rarely leave on their own. Whether you suspect activity in your crawl space or hear scratching behind walls, the safest solution is to call a local expert.
LaJaunie’s Pest Control offers same-day pest control services in Covington and across southeast Louisiana. Our technicians are knowledgeable about the differences between roof rats and Norway rats, and tailor treatments to your specific home and environment.
We stand behind our services with a satisfaction guarantee because protecting your home means protecting your family. Contact us today for a free quote and reclaim your pest-free home.
FAQs
What do Norway rat droppings look like?
Norway rat droppings are dark, blunt-ended pellets about half an inch long. You will usually find them near food sources or along walls where rats are most active at night.
Where do Norway rats build nests in Covington homes?
They typically build nests in basements, crawl spaces, or outdoor ground burrows. Indoors, they may hide behind walls or under appliances.
How can I tell if I have roof rats or Norway rats?
Roof rats prefer higher areas, such as attics, while Norway rats typically stay at ground level or below. If you see burrowing or droppings near foundations, it is likely a Norway rat infestation.
