Rats
South Northamptonshire Council offers a service for the treatment of an infestation of rats to all domestic properties.
Report a problem with Rats
If you have a problem with rats and would like help, please contact the Environment Division on the details below to make an appointment for a Pest Control Officer to contact you:-
- Online - Request a quote for this service
- Phone - 01327 322323
What are they?
A large brown rodent with a thick tail held up as it walks, younger rats can look grey.
What should I look for?
If you think you may have rats on your property the obvious signs to look for are the droppings. Damage to animal feed containers and spillages. Gnaw marks. Smear marks,(dark marks made by their oily skin/fur where they rub or go over obstacles).Runs through hedges flower borders which are usually very smooth if used regularly. Burrowing in or around the garden. Footprints in dust or in mud around puddles.
Will they do any harm?
Yes they are vectors of a number of diseases deadly us and to domestic pets and farm animals and will catch and kill birds. They can gnaw through water pipes, electric wires and cause fires.
Do I need Professional help?
The law states that if you have rats on your property you should be doing something about them i.e. treating them yourself or getting professional help. A word of caution, incorrect treatment can either make the rats resistant to the rodenticide or if ‘over poisoned’ can kill the wildlife that predates on them such as birds of prey and domestic animals.
Can South Northamptonshire Council Pest Control help me?
Yes, our Pest Control Officers have ‘Professional Use only’ rodenticide and can safely control Rat infestations. Call us on 01327 322323 or complete our online form for more details.