Controlling Rats

Norway rats live in and around cities, towns and farms throughout Nebraska and are responsible for a great deal of damage. They also transmit diseases to livestock and humans. Rats can be 7 to 12 inches long and weigh up to 1 pound. They will eat almost anything and consume 1 to 2 ounces of water each day.

To control rats, begin by inspecting where rats may obtain shelter, food and water. Look for burrows, trails and den entrances around piles of debris, heavy vegetation and clutter.

Effective rat control requires sanitation, rodent-proof construction, traps and rodenticides.