Rat Burrow Found in the Backyard in Jackson, NJ
Challenge
After finding some rat droppings in her laundry room, this new customer in Jackson, NJ immediately called our office. As we inspected, we noticed that the backdoor near the laundry room had a wide gap underneath it. We took a closer look and found some rat hair caught in it and more rat droppings near it.
We then investigated the exterior and found a rat burrow near the stoop by the backdoor. Rats create underground burrows or pathways from their nest to food sources as well as to escape predators. These burrows usually contain a main entrance and 1 or 2 exit holes away from the main entrance. The main opening to a rat's burrow is 2 to 4 inches in diameter and is smooth from use.
Solution
First, we placed a dusting tracking powder inside the burrows and properly cleaned up the droppings. Next, we installed several exterior rodent bait stations near each of the openings. Rats will follow the same pathways over and over again and will be tempted to enter the bait stations. Next, we set up several interior rodent bait stations and installed an Xcluder® Rodent Proof Door Sweeps under the back door.
Xcluder® door sweeps feature Xcluder fill fabric, providing a barrier impenetrable to rodents and other pests, along with a durable weather seal that can pay for itself in energy savings. Lastly, we scheduled several follow-up visits to replenish the bait stations, monitor the infestation, and, if necessary, apply additional treatments.