Plano is growing and so is our rodent population! New construction, weather and property maintenance are just three conditions contributing to this population boom.

New Construction drives rodents away from their natural habitats to seek new shelters in stormdrain systems, residential and business properties.

Weather determines the activity of rodents.  Mild weather means more breeding.  A Norway rat can produce up to seven litters per year with up to twelve young per litter.  Dry weather will cause stormdrains and creeks to dry out driving rodents to seek water in swimming pools, birdbaths and outdoor pet water bowls.

Property Maintenance can attract or repel rodents.  Stack firewood or lumber at least twelve inches off the ground and keep yards and alleyways free of rubbish and trash. Inspect the outside of homes or businesses for small openings, using caulk or sealant foam to prevent rodent entry (especially around air conditioning units or heat pumps).  Look for chew or gnaw marks around the bottom of doors, windows, in walls, floors, along wooden fences, boxes, crates, and food packaging.  Check narrow, enclosed pathways, such as flowerbeds, for rodent paths.  Inspect air conditioning or swimming pool pump concrete pads for rodent droppings.  Trim trees from homes to discourage attic entry. 

Elimination of food, water and shelter sources can help control rodent infestation.   Rats and mice will eat almost anything, preferring grains.  Seal trash and garbage in metal, thick rubber or plastic containers.  Keep the lids on recycling and garbage carts closed at all times.  Maintain areas around commercial dumpsters.   Never leave pet food out for extended periods of time.  Eliminate water sources by repairing leaky faucets and not over-watering yards and landscaping.   Store attic items in rodent-proof containers instead of cardboard boxes.   Practice good property maintenance.

For existing rodent populations, baits and traps can be used.   These products may be purchased at feed, garden and "do-it-yourself" pest control stores.  Always follow label directions for usage and disposal of unused portions.  When using baits, bait boxes should be used to help prevent poisoning of children and pets.  A professional pest control service may be most advantageous in controlling rodents.

Rats are not a known carrier of rabies.  Rats are carriers of fleas, which are associated with typhus and plague.  Rats are noted for being a carrier of Hantavirus in their urine, feces, and saliva; although Texas does not have frequent cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome.  Care must be given when handling live and dead rodents.  When disposing of rodents and their wastes, the following steps should be taken:

• Before cleaning, use and insecticide to kill any fleas.
• Wear HEPA mask ( high efficiency particulate air) when cleaning in confined areas.
• Do not touch rodents or their wastes with bare hands.
• Pour bleach solutions on dead rodents, their nests, and their wastes.
• Place rodents and other materials in plastic bags and dispose in outdoor dumpsters.
• Disinfect any surfaces where rodents or their wastes are found.
• Wash hands thoroughly.

By: Mike Hodnett, R.S.,   Environmental Health Specialist