Roof rats can be controlled in smaller numbers through baiting and trapping methods. Roof rats are not as susceptible as Norway rats to certain baits, but with careful placement and management, a number of baits can help eliminate roof rats in your home.
Traditional anti and non-anticoagulant baits work on roof rats. Anticoagulant baits produce internal bleeding in rats, allowing them to die painlessly. These baits can be placed in bait stations and may take some time to work, due to the fact that rats tend to avoid unfamiliar objects until they no longer consider them a threat. Roof rats frequently need to feed on larger amounts of anti-coagulant baits than Norway rats, due to their physiology.
If the roof rats are resistant to the anticoagulant baits, the non-anticoagulants such as zinc phosphide and Vitamin D3 work very effectively, as well. These baits create neurotransmitters in the rats to misfire, causing death.
Using block baits may be a more productive method of eliminating roof rats than bait stations, due to the placement necessary for their habitats. Roof rats can't easily be tracked, because of their movement in false ceilings, rafters and other narrow pathways. Block baits are small enough to be placed near their foraging paths, so they will encounter them and consume them. The other benefit to the usage of these smaller baits is the ability to place them out of the reach of children or pets. If humans or pets consume baits, they can cause internal bleeding and other hazards.
Liquid baits are another option to consider if water is scarce in certain areas. These baits work as anticoagulants and can be very effective if the rats usually travel to water sources. Regardless of the type, use all rodent bait carefully and be sure to contact a pest control professional if you suspect a large rodent infestation in your home.