Rat Invasion: Staying Rat Free in Florida
Central Florida is known for sunshine, theme parks, and… rats?
Recently, homeowners and business owners across the region have been noticing an increase in rat activity. While it’s not the most glamorous part of Florida living, being prepared is the best way to stay rat-free and stress-free.
Whether you’re trying to prevent a problem or already hearing suspicious scratches in the walls, this guide will walk you through what to look for, what attracts rats, and how to get rid of them the right way.
Why Are Rats Coming to Florida?
Rats thrive in environments that provide:
Warmth
Shelter
Easy access to food
Florida offers all three—especially in areas with heavy vegetation, older homes, water sources, or cluttered storage spots. Rats prefer dark, quiet spaces, and Central Florida’s mix of suburban and natural environments gives them the perfect place to settle in.
Add in rapid development, fluctuating weather, and plenty of human activity (trash, fruit trees, pet food, etc.), and you’ve got a recipe for rising rat populations.
How to Spot a Rat Infestation Early
Catching an infestation early is one of the best ways to reduce damage and cost.
Here’s what you can look—and listen—for:
Physical Signs
Droppings (small, dark, and often pointed)
Gnaw marks on wood, food packaging, or wiring
Grease marks along walls or baseboards from their oily fur
Nesting materials, such as shredded paper or insulation
Sounds to Listen For
Scratching
Scurrying
Light chewing noises
Remember: Rats are mostly active at night, especially around dusk and dawn. If you’re hearing late-night activity, it may be time to investigate.
Preventing a Rat Problem
You can keep your home or business protected by:
Sealing entry points (rats can squeeze through incredibly small openings)
Cleaning up food sources, including pet food bowls and outdoor trash
Clearing clutter in attics, garages, and shed spaces
Trimming vegetation near the structure
Fixing leaks, since rats love easy water sources
A little prevention goes a long way—and saves you from costly repairs later.
Already Have a Rat Problem?
If you suspect you’re dealing with an infestation, don’t wait. Rats reproduce quickly, chew through almost anything, and can cause significant structural and electrical damage.
This is where professional Rat Infestation and Removal comes in.
Call the Pros!
When it comes to Rat Infestation and Removal in Central Florida, R.H. Miller is your trusted local expert.
Being locally based means we understand exactly how rats behave in our climate—and more importantly, how to keep them out of your home.
Keeping customers rat-free is our specialty!
From inspection to removal to prevention, R.H. Miller has you covered.
Fun Fact Corner: Rat Edition!
Let’s lighten things up—rats aren’t all bad!
🐀 Great swimmers – Some species can tread water for days!
🧠 Surprising memory – Once a rat learns a route, it almost never forgets it.
💪 Powerful jaws – Their bite strength can chew through materials like wood, plastic, and even soft metals.
Pretty impressive… just not something you want inside your attic.