The City of Reno says they're seeing an increase in reports of rats. Pest control companies say one of the many reasons is the weather.
Lee Lawrence, owner of Zee Best Pest Control, says, "This damp, cold weather that's moving, our calls have again started to increase dramatically in not only roof rats but mice, pack rats, and other pests as well."
Lawrence says this isn't a new issue. He tells us this growth is something he and other pest control companies have been noticing in our region in the last five years.
"The last five winters have been relatively mild. We've had a lot of fruit production in Reno, and that fruit production, apples, pears, and peaches, and things wind up on the ground. People don't pick them up," he said.
Lawrence says leaving out pet food, feed in chicken coups, bird feed, and compost also attracts rats. He tells us to make sure everything is left in a closed container, remove any overhanging branches or other vegetation near your home, and pick up any garbage or other potential food sources.
And be sure to check for any signs of rodent activity near your home, like feces, chewed through holes, and noise.
"People hear noises at night," he said. "Chewing, gnawing, scampering, noises like this. Be alert, be aware of your environment."
If you see or hear any signs, call a professional to inspect immediately. Lawrence says if you see one rat, then there's at least 10 you don't.
Procrastinating can lead to serious health risks and damage to your home.
"They can transfer diseases, also chewing of car wires, damage to the structure, chewing structures," he said.
The city says it has no operational authority for rodent control other than inspecting sewer systems.
Other regional agencies, such as the Nevada Department of Wildlife, Northern Nevada Public Health, and the Nevada Department of Agriculture, are also not responsible unless an infestation is a hazard to public health, safety, or agriculture.
They recommend calling a private pest control company if you believe your home is infested.
