Rats are primarily nocturnal (active at night), so they are rarely seen. More often, it is their tell-tale signs that indicate a rat infestation, including:
Rat droppings – shiny black, blunt at both ends; and ½” – ¾” in length – similar in size and shape to a grain of rice. (Mice droppings are smaller and have pointed ends)
Rat tracks – foot prints and tail tracks in dusty corners and along baseboards.
Gnawed wood – Rat teeth leave marks approximately 1/8” in length, which are typically larger than marks left by mice.
Rub marks – rats often leave smudges of grease and dirt along baseboards, rafters, tight passageways, and on pipes and corners.
Rat holes – Norway rats are known to dig extensive burrow systems. Rat holes are the entrances to rat burrows and are often found next to structures.
Rat nests – -rats will make nests in burrows, attics, and even wall cavities by shredding soft materials such as cloth, cardboard, and insulation.
Rat odor – a rat or mouse infestation often creates a musky odor.
Rat noises – scratching, squeaks, gnawing, clawing, and other unusual sounds you hear during the night might be rats.