Roof Rats

Roof rats are omnivorous but show a preference for fruits, nuts, seeds, and vegetation, aligning with their tendency to forage in gardens and orchards. They also consume insects, pet food, and food waste, making them a common pest in residential areas. Their diet flexibility allows them to thrive in a wide range of environments but often leads them into conflict with humans, especially in urban settings where food sources are plentiful.

Roof rat scat is spindle-shaped, about 1/2 inch in length, and often found along their travel routes or near feeding areas. Identifying their droppings is crucial for early detection of an infestation. Roof rat scat can pose health risks, as it may contain harmful pathogens. Proper identification and cleanup of rodent droppings are important steps in managing and eliminating roof rat populations.

Roof rat tracks are less commonly observed by homeowners due to the rats’ preference for traveling above ground and along wires or branches. However, their footprints can sometimes be detected in dusty environments or with tracking powders, showing a typical rodent track pattern but with slimmer footprints compared to Norway rats. Identifying roof rat tracks can help in assessing activity levels and guiding control efforts.