Roof Rats, also known as (Rattus purvis), usually live and breed above ground in thick vegetation like ivy, oak, shrubs and trees and have long, sharp ears, a short tail and big, bushy hairs. These are small and white or cream colored, with gray or brownish hair around their ears and neck. The tail has two rings. The roof rats can be found in large groups on mountains, roadsides, abandoned mining claims, railway stations, telephone poles, telephone switchboards, power poles, fences, and any other place where tall trees and brush cover the ground. They may not have a nest box.

The Phoenix or Desert Rat has a varied diet and likes to eat various types of insects, including birds, lizards, worms, mosquitoes, bats, bugs, slugs, ticks, mice, birds, frogs, skunks, and many more. They are active during the night and like to eat while awake. They are also very clever and can be trained to do nearly anything they are asked. The Phoenix often lives and breeds under bridges and other structures in desert regions and can be a nuisance to people and property.

When Phoenix rats live in an area with a lot of vegetation and low water sources, they can form colonies and establish a food source. If this happens, other rodents will often try to steal the Phoenix’s food. The Phoenix and other roof rats need water to survive and if there is no water source, they will try to get to a water source on or near the structure they live in. In addition, they will try to access water sources stored in underground pipes, tanks, caves, under homes, sheds, attics, old trees, and other places.

If you think you have a Roof Rat problem and want us to take a look for you contact our Roof Rat Experts at ACTION Termite & Pest Control for help