Understanding Rats: Insights from a Rodentologist

Rats – often reviled, frequently feared, and undeniably ubiquitous. From bustling metropolises like New York to the quiet suburbs of Detroit, these resilient rodents are a common fixture. But what makes them so successful, and how can we truly manage their presence? Dr. Bobby Corrigan, a leading rodentologist with a PhD in the field, shed some light on these fascinating yet problematic creatures.

The Global Citizen: Why Rats Thrive Everywhere

Dr. Corrigan highlights that rats are not just a local problem; they are a global pest, found in almost every city worldwide. Their remarkable adaptability is a key factor. "They're great at hugger muggering," Dr. Corrigan explains, referring to their ability to huddle together in tight spaces, comfortable in close quarters and with minimal resources. They are incredibly opportunistic, constantly seeking out food sources and adapting to diverse environments, from their original plains of Mongolia to our urban and suburban landscapes.

The Paradoxical Rat: Friend and Foe

It might seem counterintuitive, but Dr. Corrigan suggests that humanity owes a significant debt to rats. Their physiological similarities to humans have made them invaluable subjects in scientific research. "We've studied them for every medicine we've used, every cosmetic, mental anguish," he notes. This research, he argues, has potentially extended human life by decades.

However, the "bad rap" rats receive is not entirely unfounded. Their preference for unsanitary environments, like decaying garbage and sewer systems, means they can carry and transmit various germs. As Dr. Corrigan cautions, "when they come up above ground, we have to be concerned about what's on the feet of that rat."

The Golden Rule of Rat Control: No Food, No Rats

When it comes to attracting rats, Dr. Corrigan's message is clear and emphatic: "No food equals no rats." He emphasizes that rats, like all mammals, require a consistent food supply for survival. If you see rats regularly in an area, it's almost certainly because there's a readily available food source within a short distance.

He points out a significant human contribution to rat populations: our waste management habits. While some individuals are meticulous, a substantial portion of the population is responsible for littering and improperly disposing of food waste, directly sustaining rat colonies. Even seemingly minor infractions, like overflowing or flimsy garbage cans, can provide a banquet for an entire block's rat population.

Gardens, while attractive to rats, are often secondary food sources. While rats will raid ripe vegetables like tomatoes, they primarily seek protein and a balanced nutritional diet. Dr. Corrigan reveals a surprising attractant: grease. Rats will actively lick grease from sidewalks and dumpsters, as it provides essential calories and nutrition.

Building Better Barriers: Rodent-Proofing Your Property

The good news is that structures can indeed be made rodent-proof. Dr. Corrigan debunks the myth that rats can chew through anything. While they can gnaw through wood, aluminum, and copper, they cannot penetrate brick, cement, or properly installed metal.

Effective rodent-proofing involves maintaining solid foundations, installing rodent-proof door sweeps, and diligently managing waste. If you're unsure how to approach it, Dr. Corrigan suggests consulting university resources (look for .edu sites for reliable information) or hiring a professional pest control service.

Community Matters: Addressing Rat Issues in Dense Areas

In dense urban environments, a single negligent neighbor can create a rat problem for an entire block. Even well-maintained properties can experience rat activity if an adjacent property or public space provides an ongoing food source. In such cases, Dr. Corrigan advises contacting local health boards or working with landlords to address the issue. And yes, even dog poop, when left uncollected, can be a surprising food source for rats.

In suburban areas, while there's more space, the same principles apply. Improperly stored firewood, unkempt yards, excessive bird feeders, and abandoned clutter can all provide food and harborage for rats and other unwanted wildlife. Keeping properties tidy and managing waste effectively are crucial for suburbanites too.

Beyond the Trap: Effective Rat Management

Dr. Corrigan stresses that effective rat control goes beyond simply setting traps. Rats are intelligent and formidable adversaries, and true control often requires professional expertise. He cautions against relying on "simple" solutions or products without scientific backing.

Regarding feral cats, Dr. Corrigan, a cat owner himself, states unequivocally that they are not an effective solution for widespread rat control. Extensive research shows that cats are largely ineffective at controlling established rat populations, and in many cases, rats will even chase cats.

An Unlikely Admiration

Despite the challenges rats pose, Dr. Corrigan holds a deep respect for them. Having spent years observing them firsthand, even moving into rat-infested barns to study their behavior, he's witnessed their complex social structures and emotional depth. "They're very loyal to their families as long as they have food and shelter," he notes, adding that rats exhibit altruistic behaviors, caring for their own kind. For Dr. Corrigan, while they are a pest we must manage, rats remain "an amazing mammal" that he admires.

Source: Daily Detroit