Rats in UK Attic: Identification, Trapping, and Exclusion Guide

Droppings (1–5+ mm), 5+ caught in traps, one large specimen (5–6" body) = rats. Tail length vs. body distinguishes roof rat (tail > body) from Norway rat (tail < body).

Control Strategy (Integrated Pest Management)

1. Trapping first: Snap traps (Victor, Tomcat) or electronic traps. Pre-bait unset 3–5 days (peanut butter, bacon). Then set. Use at least 12 traps — rats are neophobic.
2. Bait stations (if needed): Lockable, tamper-resistant. Use anticoagulant blocks (bromadiolone, difethialone). Place along walls, near runs. Bait station guide.
3. Exclusion (permanent): Seal ALL entry points >½" (steel wool, hardware cloth, caulk, concrete). Rodent-proof construction.
4. Never seal holes until trapping confirms no rats inside. Use paper test: icwdm.org.

Follow-up Questions Answered

• Small catches = likely juvenile rats (same species), but mice can co-exist.
• Rats eat birds; mice occasionally.
• Attic-to-house entry is common—seal pipe chases, wiring gaps, vent ducts.
• DIY is fine if thorough. Pro needed if structure is complex or infestation large.
• Poison: rodent dies unpredictably (odor, non-target risk). Traps preferred.

Read the UNL guides linked above. They're the gold standard.