Rodents

Rats

Rats seek food, water and shelter in and around buildings; larger droppings, gnawing, greasy marks and noises at night can indicate activity.

Sharp macro close-up of a single brown rat on a plain concrete compound surface beside a drain, whiskers and fur in fine detail, soft natural daylight, shallow depth of field, calm and still

Rats are larger and stronger than mice, and they can use roofs, drains, waste areas and gaps under doors to reach food and shelter. In Accra, activity may be seen around bins, drains, stores, kitchens and compounds, and in roof spaces where rats can travel along wires, pipes and walls. They are mostly active at night, so noises overhead and signs left behind are often noticed before the rats themselves.

Rats can damage buildings and stored goods, and they contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine. Crepps begins by inspecting inside and around the property to find routes, burrows and food sources, and explains what we find. The IPM plan combines proofing and repairs, waste and storage advice, monitoring, and traps or stations placed where activity is regular, with rodenticides used only where needed and in tamper-resistant stations. We follow up to check activity and adjust the plan if needed.

Signs

Look for larger droppings, often in groups along walls or beside food stores, and bigger gnaw marks on wood, pipes or cables. Greasy smear marks along regular runs, burrows outdoors and noises overhead at night, especially in roof spaces, can also point to rats.

Why it matters

Rats are larger and stronger than mice, so they can gnaw through wood, pipes and cables (a fire risk) and damage insulation, stored goods and building services. They contaminate food and surfaces with droppings and urine, which may carry germs.

The IPM approach

We look for outdoor burrows, roof and drain routes, and gaps at roof level or under doors, then seal and repair them. Traps or stations go where droppings and runs show regular movement, followed by monitoring and follow-up visits. Rodenticides are used only where needed and in tamper-resistant stations.

Prevention

Keep waste bins covered and do not leave food or animal feed outside. Cut back vegetation and stacked materials from walls, and repair damaged drains and roof gaps. Store food securely and keep clutter away from walls.

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