What Are Pack Rats?

Pack rats are medium-sized rodents, typically measuring 7 to 8 inches long—not including their tail. They have large ears, big black eyes, and are usually grayish-brown in color. What sets pack rats apart from other rodents is their unique behavior: they love to collect shiny objects and other small items, often trading them for something they find more appealing. This quirky habit is why they’re called “pack” rats.

Pack rats are excellent climbers and can make nests in attics, walls, garages, and even inside vehicles. In nature, they build nests out of sticks, cacti, and other debris, creating large, messy structures called “middens.” When they invade human habitats, they replicate this behavior, leading to extensive property damage.

Dangers of Pack Rat Infestations

Pack rats are more than just a nuisance—they can cause real damage. Here are some of the primary issues associated with pack rat infestations:

• Property Damage: Pack rats chew on wires, insulation, and wood, which can lead to costly repairs. This is especially problematic in vehicles where chewed wires can cause electrical problems.
• Health Risks: Pack rats can carry parasites and diseases, including Hantavirus, which poses a risk to human health. In addition, their hairs have been linked to asthma-related issues.
• Fire Hazards: When pack rats chew on electrical wiring, it increases the risk of electrical fires in homes and vehicles.
• Contamination: Their droppings, urine, and nesting materials can contaminate food and other surfaces, leading to unsanitary conditions.

Signs of a Pack Rat Infestation

Identifying an infestation early can help prevent extensive damage. Here are some common signs of pack rat activity:

• Nests: Look for nests made of twigs, cacti, and other debris in attics, garages, sheds, or under your vehicle’s hood.
• Droppings: Pack rat droppings are similar to those of other rodents—small, dark, and pellet-shaped.
• Chewed Wires and Wood: Evidence of gnawing on wires, insulation, or wooden structures is a clear sign of pack rats.
• Nocturnal Activity: Pack rats are mostly active at night, so you might hear scratching, gnawing, or scampering sounds after dark.
• Missing or Moved Objected: Pack rats often collect shiny items like keys, coins, or jewelry, moving them to their nests.

How to Protect Your Home and Vehicle from Pack Rats

Preventing a pack rat infestation is much easier and less costly than dealing with an active one. Here are some effective strategies to keep pack rats at bay:

1. Seal Entry Points: Pack rats can squeeze through surprisingly small openings – they only need about the width of a quarter to fit through. Inspect your home’s exterior, including the roof, walls, and foundation, for gaps, cracks, or holes. Use steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to seal any potential entry points, paying special attention to vents, gaps around doors and windows, and areas where utility lines enter your home.
2. Remove Nesting Materials: Pack rats are drawn to clutter, so keeping your property tidy is crucial. Remove piles of wood, brush, and debris from around your home. Trim back trees and shrubs that are close to your house, as pack rats can use these as pathways to access your roof or attic.
3. Protect Your Vehicle: Pack rats love to nest in car engines, particularly when vehicles are parked for long periods. If possible, park your vehicle inside a garage with doors and windows closed. Place rodent repellents like peppermint oil, mothballs, or commercial rodent repellent products under the hood or around your parking area. A simple under-hood light can deter pack rats, as they prefer dark, quiet places.
4. Use Traps: The use of snap traps can be an effective way to control pack rat populations. Place traps near active nests or where you’ve seen pack rat activity.
5. Consider Professional Pest Control: If you have an ongoing pack rat problem or are unsure how to handle the situation, professional pest control is your best option. At Bill’s Home Service, we’ve kept pack rats out of homes and vehicles for more than 60 years. Our experts can identify potential entry points and conditions conducive for pack rat activity, eliminate existing infestations, and provide ongoing prevention measures to ensure your property remains pack rat-free.