Rat Rats are mostly active at night, so it is often the evidence they leave behind, rather than the rats themselves, that first alerts Brandon homeowners to a problem. Droppings and gnaw marks are two of the most reliable signs, and both are worth learning to recognise.
Identifying droppings
Rat droppings are typically dark brown to black, roughly the size of a grain of rice but often slightly larger, with tapered ends. They are usually found in clusters near feeding areas, along regular travel routes, or close to nesting sites such as loft insulation, shed corners or behind stored items.
- Fresh droppings are dark and slightly shiny
- Older droppings dry out, becoming greyer and more brittle
- Look near skirting boards, cupboards, lofts and sheds
- Droppings often appear in small clusters rather than single pieces
Identifying gnaw marks
Rats gnaw constantly to wear down their teeth, and this leaves distinctive marks on a range of materials. Wood, plastic, cabling and even soft masonry can show signs of gnawing, usually as rough, splintered marks with visible tooth grooves.
Check skirting boards, door frames, shed timber, decking, and stored items in the loft or garage. Chewed food packaging, with ragged holes rather than clean tears, is another common sign, along with gnawed electrical cabling, which should be treated as a serious warning sign given the fire risk involved.
What to do if you find these signs
Finding droppings or gnaw marks in a Brandon property is a strong indicator that rats are present, even if you have not seen one directly. A professional inspection can confirm the extent of the problem and identify where rats are getting in. Green Pest Control offers inspections and treatment with a free, no-obligation quotation. Call 01502 630 122 to arrange a visit.
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