Rodents in Florida homes

The roof rat is the most common and most damaging rodent pest in Florida, according to UF/IFAS. As the name suggests, roof rats are climbers: they live in attics, soffits, wall voids, palm trees and dense shrubs, and gnaw on wiring and rafters. Norway rats are less common in Florida and are found mostly along coasts and canals. House mice round out the list.

Signs of rats or mice

• Scratching or scurrying in the attic or walls at night
• Droppings: about ½ inch for roof rats, ¾ inch for Norway rats, ⅛ inch for mice
• Gnawed wires, insulation, food packaging or rafters
• Grease rub marks along beams and entry points
• Hollowed-out citrus and other fruit on backyard trees

Why rodents are a problem

Rats and mice contaminate food, spread disease, and can start fires by gnawing electrical wires.

Prevention

1. Trim tree limbs and palm fronds back from the roof.
2. Seal gaps around rooflines, vents, soffits, pipes and utility lines.
3. Store food, pet food and birdseed in sealed containers.
4. Pick up fallen fruit and keep trash tightly closed.

How DNR handles rodents

Trapping alone doesn’t solve a rodent problem if they can still get in. DNR’s rodent service combines removal with exclusion: finding and sealing the entry points so new rodents can’t move in. Call 727-594-0404 or book a free consult.

Related pest spotlights: Ticks and Fleas.

FAQ

What’s making noise in my attic at night? In Florida, it’s often roof rats, which are most active at night.

Should I use live traps and release rats outside? No. Released rats usually come right back or become someone else’s problem. Removal plus exclusion is the lasting fix.

How do rats get into the attic? Usually by climbing trees, palms or utility lines and squeezing through gaps at the roofline.

Sources: University of Florida/IFAS, Rat and Mouse Control and Control of Roof Rats. Reviewed by Ricky Williams, Certified Operator in Charge.