What does a ground rat look like and how to deal with it? - briefly
A ground rat is a medium‑sized rodent, about 15–20 cm in body length, with a gray‑brown fur, pointed snout, small ears, and a long, hairless tail. Control measures include sealing all possible entry points, deploying snap or live traps, and, if required, applying rodenticide in accordance with safety regulations.
What does a ground rat look like and how to deal with it? - in detail
Ground rats are small, stout rodents measuring 8–12 cm in body length, with a short, thick tail of similar size. Their fur is dense, usually brown to gray, sometimes with a reddish tint on the back. Ears are small and hidden by hair; eyes are modest, positioned on the sides of the head. The skull is robust, featuring strong incisors that protrude continuously. Feet are compact, equipped with sharp claws for digging.
These animals favor burrows in loose soil, gardens, compost heaps, and the foundations of structures. Activity peaks at dusk and during the night, but they may emerge in daylight when food is abundant. Typical signs of presence include fresh droppings (about 1 cm long, black), gnaw marks on wooden or plastic material, and visible runways in mulch or sand.
Effective management combines prevention, monitoring, and removal:
- Seal entry points: Install metal flashing, cement cracks, and use wire mesh to block burrow openings larger than 1 cm.
- Eliminate food sources: Store grain, pet food, and kitchen waste in airtight containers; clear fallen fruit and garden debris.
- Reduce shelter: Remove piles of wood, stones, and dense vegetation near foundations; keep grass trimmed.
- Set traps: Use snap traps or live‑capture cages baited with peanut butter, seeds, or dried fruit; place them along runways and near burrow entrances.
- Apply rodenticides: Deploy anticoagulant baits in tamper‑resistant stations, following label instructions and local regulations.
- Professional assistance: Engage licensed pest‑control operators for extensive infestations or when chemical use is restricted.
Regular inspection of the property, combined with the measures above, limits population growth and prevents damage to structures, crops, and stored goods.