Rats are common in southern Louisiana. In Baton Rouge, a small problem can grow into a full infestation fast. Warm, humid weather and easy food make Baton Rouge ideal for rats. Knowing the types of rats here helps you spot issues early and stop them.
If you see gnaw marks on walls or food packages, or hear scratching at night, you may already have a rodent problem. Knowing the species helps you pick the best removal plan. Each type has its own habits, nesting spots, and risks.
Rats rarely leave on their own. For fast, reliable rodent control in Baton Rouge, LA, LaJaunie’s Pest Control offers local, proven help backed by years of serving Louisiana homes.
Key Takeaways
• Baton Rouge is home to two main rat species: the roof rat and the Norway rat.
• Roof rats prefer high nesting sites, while Norway rats burrow near basements and foundations.
• Droppings, scratching sounds, and gnawed materials are signs of rodent activity.
• Professional pest control provides long-term prevention and safe removal.
Common Types Of Rodents In Baton Rouge
Roof rats and Norway rats are the most common in Baton Rouge. House mice and deer mice can show up, too. Correct identification helps you choose the right control plan.
Roof rats (black rats) are sleek with large ears and long tails. They nest high in attics, garages, and trees and climb well. Norway rats are stocky with smaller ears and shorter tails. They burrow under buildings and near foundations..
Spotting a Rat Infestation in Your Home
One of the first signs of a rat infestation is droppings. Roof rat droppings are small and pointed, while Norway rat droppings are larger with blunt ends. You may also see gnaw marks on furniture, cardboard, or electrical wires. Rats constantly chew to keep their teeth from overgrowing.
Listen for scratching in walls or ceilings at night. Grease marks along baseboards and small holes near food also point to rats. When you see several signs at once, activity is likely. Persistent noises can also mean you have rats in your wall.
Behavior And Nesting Habits Of Roof Rats
Roof rats climb well and prefer warm, high spots. They live in attics, rafters, and upper cabinets. In Baton Rouge, they also nest in palm trees and thick shrubs. They travel along lines and roofs to reach food and shelter. Homeowners often wonder how to know if there is a rat nest in the attic, since roof rats favor these high-nesting areas.
They eat fruit, grains, and pantry food. Roof rats are common in older areas with mature trees that reach roofs. If you spot one, more are close by. Knowing these patterns helps with rat control in Baton Rouge.
Behavior And Nesting Habits Of The Norway Rat
Norway rats, also called brown or sewer rats, are larger and stay near the ground. They dig long burrows under sheds, foundations, and basements. In older areas, they can enter through sewer lines or gaps around plumbing. Some rats in Louisiana even move between outdoor burrows and home interiors during storms or flooding.
They often contaminate pet food, chew insulation, and damage stored items. They are less agile than roof rats, so they stay low but still cause significant damage. They may also seek warm engine bays and sheds.
Many homeowners ask, “Do rodents nest in blown-in insulation in Baton Rouge homes?” Yes, soft insulation can make a perfect nesting area if not sealed properly.
Health Risks Associated With Rodents
Rats do more than make a mess. They can spread germs to people and pets. Droppings may carry illness, and bites or scratches can lead to rat-bite fever. Rats can also bring fleas and mites.
Rats near food or nesting materials can contaminate kitchens and pantries. Because of these risks, many Louisiana families choose professional pest control in Baton Rouge, LA.
What Time Of Day Are Rats Most Active
Rats are nocturnal and most active at night when homes are quiet. Their night habits make them hard to spot during the day. But seeing them in daylight usually means the infestation has grown large enough that food competition forces them out early. If you’re wondering at what time of day rats are most active, the answer is mostly after dark.
Because they creep and avoid people, regular inspections help detect infestations before they spread. If you hear scratching in your attic after sunset, you’re likely dealing with a rat problem.
How Do Exterminators Get Rid Of Rats
Exterminators begin by inspecting your home for signs of rodent activity, identifying nesting sites, and locating entry points. At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we use bait stations, snap traps, and exclusion techniques to stop infestations at the source.
After our team removes the active rats, technicians seal entry points to prevent future intrusions. We also provide treatment plans tailored to the humid Louisiana environment, helping keep rodents from returning. When you’re wondering how exterminators get rid of rats effectively, the answer lies in combining inspection, elimination, and exclusion.
Tips For Getting Rid Of Rats Outside
Rats thrive where they find food and shelter. Remove standing water, seal trash bins, and trim branches that touch your roof. Keep firewood and loose materials, such as cardboard or cloth, away from the house.
If you feed pets outdoors, store pet food in sealed containers. Cutting down their food sources outside reduces the chance they will move indoors. Consistent yard maintenance is one of the most effective ways to get rid of rats outside.
Exclusion And Prevention For Long-Term Rat Control
Effective exclusion means sealing every gap, vent, and crack that rats could squeeze through. Both roof rats and Norway rats can fit through holes smaller than a quarter. Attics, crawl spaces, and garages are common entry points. If you suspect activity overhead and want guidance on how to get rid of rats in your attic, a professional exclusion plan is the safest route.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we specialize in exclusion services that keep rodents out for good. Our professional pest control team also educates homeowners on ongoing prevention methods tailored to Louisiana’s unique conditions.
Professional Pest Control In Baton Rouge, LA
Pest control in Baton Rouge, LA, requires experience and precision. At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we offer same-day service and proven rat control methods that address both active infestations and long-term prevention. Our trained and certified technicians identify rat species, eliminate infestations, and protect your home from future risks.
Whether you’re dealing with roof rats in your attic or Norway rats burrowing under your foundation, our team is ready to help. We use advanced pest control services that are safe for families, pets, and the environment.
Making The Right Choice For Rat Control In Louisiana
Louisiana’s warm climate and busy cities lead to frequent rodent issues. In Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and nearby areas, professional help keeps homes pest-free. At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we serve both homes and businesses.
If you suspect rats, act fast. Contact us today to schedule an inspection to see how our local team can restore comfort and safety at home.
FAQs
What are the most common rat species in Baton Rouge?
The roof rat and the Norway rat are the most common rat species in Baton Rouge. Both adapt well to urban areas and often invade homes in search of food and shelter.
Where do rats build their nests?
Roof rats prefer high areas like attics, trees, and eaves, while Norway rats burrow near basements and crawl spaces. You may find nesting sites in garages or piles of debris.
What should I do if I see rat droppings?
If you find rat droppings, it’s best to contact professional pest control right away. Droppings indicate an active infestation that can spread quickly.
