While the logistics industry benefits from the increasing demand for shipped goods as many people continue to stay home and take advantage of delivery services, the growth of infrastructure and warehousing spaces provides a unique problem: the spread of roof rats.  

As their name suggests, roof rats prefer higher elevations, climbing on power lines or tree branches to get on the roof of a building where they can remain undetected, hiding in attics and above eye level. The most notable risk of their population growth is the spread of diseases such as salmonellosis, made even more problematic by the pandemic. 

As seen in headlines throughout 2020, rodents made an appearance throughout the U.S. in interesting and alarming ways. They demonstrated aggressive behavior due to a lack of food sources during the COVID-19 outbreak and even transmitted rat Hepatitis E to humans. Their presence became so pervasive that the CDC issued “Rodent Control" guidance in May.   

Roof rats, while historically found in U.S. port cities, have made their way inland, according to Orkin’s service data. Comparison of the 2005 map from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and the 2020 Orkin service map illustrates the tremendous increase in roof rat populations from the West and East Coasts into the middle of the country.  

“The spread of roof rats can be attributed to the growth of U.S. infrastructure and warehousing spaces, as well as the increase in transportation via railways and semi-tractor-trailer trucks into new hubs,” said Judy Black, Orkin entomologist. “As goods left the ports to make their way into the central U.S., so did the roof rats.”   

As colder weather continues, rodent activity will continue to increase as these pests seek shelter in warm indoor areas with food and water. Between the weather, pandemic challenges and infrastructure growth across the country, roof rats should be closely monitored and controlled — more than ever. Roof rats are one of the most difficult pests to control, as they are resistant to more common treatments for Norway rats, for example. To ensure proper management, an experienced professional should be consulted to determine the right approach.

Celebrating a milestone anniversary this year, Orkin is proud to have achieved 120 years of business, an accomplishment that can be attributed to the company’s ongoing commitment to excellent service. With well over a century of knowledge and experience with roof rats and state-of-the-art tools and products, Orkin is well-equipped to assess roof rat problems and mount a strategic response to help rid facilities of the pests and provide maximum protection.

For more information about roof rat and rodent prevention, visit Orkin.com.

About Orkin, LLC

Founded in 1901, Atlanta-based Orkin is an industry leader in essential pest control services and protection against termite damage, rodents and insects. Proudly celebrating 120 years of business this year, the company is committed to excellent service and operates more than 400 locations with more than 8,000 employees. Through Orkin’s Points of Service process – Investigate, Protect, Fortify, Keep Watch, Report and Follow Up – Orkin provides customized services to approximately 1.7 million homeowners and businesses in the United States and has nearly 100 international locations in more than 65 countries. Orkin is committed to studying pest biology and applying scientifically proven methods. The company collaborates with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and eight major universities to conduct research and help educate consumers and businesses on pest-related health threats. Learn more about Orkin at Orkin.com. Orkin is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rollins Inc. (NYSE: ROL). Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.

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