ATLANTA — Watch where you step! Atlanta recently appeared on a list from Orkin ranking the Top 50 Rattiest Cities in the U.S.
This year's list featured Chicago in the top spot, with Los Angeles coming in second and New York in third.
So, where did Atlanta fall on the list? Turns out we're nestled in at No. 14, right between Boston and Indianapolis.
“Rodents multiply swiftly, and when an infestation is left unattended, they can cause extensive damage to homes and yards,” said Ben Hottel, an Orkin entomologist. “Rats are capable of squeezing into spaces through holes as small as a quarter, which makes it especially important to seal cracks from the outside.”
According to Orkin, the list was made "based on the number of new rodent services showcasing the demand and also indicates the efforts that residents and businesses of the top cities have taken to treat rodent issues."
The company also mentioned that this time of year, it's common for rats to move indoors, looking for food and shelter from the cold.
I'm so scared; how do I tell if I have rats?
Orkin suggests you look out for the following:
- Droppings - They're often left behind in places where food is stored, like cabinets and pantries
- Gnaw marks - Mice are known to bite through walls, wood and wires
- Nest - These can be found in dark, secluded areas. Look out for shredded paper, cotton or fabrics
- Rub marks - Rats will leave dark grease or dirt marks along walls and floorboards
- Strange noises - Keep an ear out for scurrying in the walls and attic could mean rodents
Help me stop them!
Orkin recommends the following tips for keeping rats out of your home:
- Store away food - Keep food, especially dry goods, sealed in metal or glass
- Declutter - Rodents love cardboard objects and chew on them, so tidy up your home a little
- Maintain your landscaping - Tall grass and woodpiles beside the house can be ideal rodent habitats. Tree branches in contact with homes can also offer rodents easy access
- Inspect inside and outside of home - Look out for rodent droppings, burrows, and rub marks
- Look for possible entry points - Seal any holes and cracks found around your home
You can take a look at the full ranking here.