Rats are furry critters that are highly adaptable and resilient. Canada is home to a number of cities that have extreme rat problems. Southern Ontario has several cities in the top ten rat filled cities in Ontario, which makes animal control services highly sought after. Rodents are most active in the summer as this is when they are in search of shelter, water, and food. They can easily end up invading your home in the process, as people’s residences are highly attractive to rats because they provide exactly what they are looking for. Keep reading to learn more about rat problems in the city.

The Rattiest Cities In Ontario 

Based on a recent study that compared commercial and residential mice and rat treatments throughout a number of cities in Ontario, a top list of the most rat filled cities in the province was compiled. They are as follows:

1. Toronto
2. Ottawa
3. Mississauga
4. Scarborough
5. Hamilton
6. Oakville
7. Windsor
8. Burlington
9. Sudbury
10. Brampton

If you are a resident in any of this cities it may come as no surprise, as homeowners have been experiencing a rise of rat infestations in their homes recently. If this is something that you have been having trouble with as well, professional animal control services are the recommended solution.

DIY Prevention Tips For Your Home 

Among the tips that you can follow to minimize the chances of a rat infestation on your property are the following:

• Eliminate water and food sources
• Trim your trees
• Seal holes and gaps

Eliminating Water and Food Sources 

Water is essential for the survival of pests, eliminating any and all moisture sources is the first step you need to take when trying to prevent rat infestations. Pay special attention to water gathering in recycling or trash bins and clogged gutters. Bird feeders and the seed that falls to the ground will also attract rats to your property. Removing bird feeders and making sure all food waste is secure will go a long way to keeping your home rat free.

Trimming Your Trees and Garden 

In order to eliminate any hiding spots for rodents, it is a good idea to keep shrubbery and grasses well trimmed. Overgrown lawns and gardens will provide plenty of hiding places and concealed travel roots for rats. Keep tree branches cut back at least a full metre away from the exterior walls of your home and keep them from overhanging the roof to prevent access.

Sealing Holes And Gaps 

Use water-resistant sealant to fill  any holes or cracks in the foundation of your house. Remember to apply weather-stripping around doors and windows and make sure to seal gaps around external vent exhausts. These openings are easily discovered by rats and will allow them directly into your house.

If Your DIY Rat Prevention Should Fail, Turn To Skedaddle 

Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control is a company that has plenty of experience in dealing with different types of wildlife and rodent infestations. Having helped thousands of home and business owners over the course of its nearly 30 year history, Skedaddle is a pioneer when it comes to humane pest and wildlife removal methods and techniques. There is no infestation that Skedaddle can’t handle, so call them today and ensure your home remains rat-free.