About Roof Rats

Roof rats are dark brown/black and measure 13 to 18 inches in length including their tail. They weigh 5 to 9 ounces, are slender with large and hairless ears
Roof rats are nocturnal animals - they begin searching for food after sunset
They will move food to a hiding place before eating. Food caches may be found in wood piles or attics
Roof rat's territory is up to 300 feet in any direction
Roof rats are neophobia - they are very cautious around new settings. It may take several days before they will approach a bait station or trap

Young are born in 21 days after conception
Litter size is 5 to 8 young per litter
Three or more litters are produced per year
Rats are reproductively mature at 3 months of age
Breeding season is year-round in the Phoenix area
Roof rats prefer to nest higher off the ground, such as in attics, bird nests, or bearded palms

Roof rats are aerial, spending 90% of their life at least 4 feet above the ground
They travel on power lines, block walls, fences and through oleanders
Roof rats are often found living in trees, vine-covered fences, storage rooms, attics and oleanders
Attics are a preferred refuge, since they are safe, dark, and warm - ideal for nesting and rearing their young
Citrus groves can become infested

Roof rats prefer fruit and nuts, such as citrus, pomegranates, figs, apples, and pecans
They are omnivorous and, if necessary, will feed on almost anything
Rats love pet food and wild bird feed
They require water daily - citrus may provide adequate water if the moisture content is high