Protect your health – keep rats and mice under control

• Around the world, rats and mice are known to spread over 35 diseases.
• Diseases can also be transferred indirectly by ticks, fleas, and mites that live on infected rats.
• Rats can be discouraged and controlled simply by denying them food and shelter.
• Rats normally come out at night.

Signs you may have an infestation of rats or mice include

• droppings (12 mm to 18 mm long)
• added debris such as snail shells or fruits with the sides eaten out
• bones left in the corners of sheds, under homes and other secluded spots
• greasy trails or rub marks along paths they travel, especially supports or beams
• burrow holes around buildings
• signs of gnawing damage
• pet dogs, cats and birds being more excitable than usual
• squeaking, gnawing or scratching noises in walls, cupboards, ceilings and under floors.

Rats can be discouraged and controlled simply by denying them food and shelter

• Store firewood away from the sides of sheds and fences and keep it well clear (40 cm) off the ground.
• Regularly remove or limit garden waste or other disused material in sheds or around your yard.
• Remove fruit and nuts from trees or vines at the end of the season.
• Block holes and other potential access points around all buildings.
• Store bird seed and chicken feed in an airtight container.
• Keep pet food dishes clean and store bulk pet food supplies in containers and locations where rats cannot enter or chew through.
• Maintain rubbish and compost bins free from holes.
• Do not include meat scraps in compost.
• What should I do if I have rats on my property?
  Property occupiers and owners are required under the Health Act to prevent rats harbouring on their property.