Rat infestation

[pvb526]

It seems there is a real problem with rats in The Villages. Our whole block in Bonnybrook has had a problem with them. If you have a pest company please call them and have rat traps put down. Also don't leave any fruit laying on the ground and birdseed can also draw them. Check your grill too as the smell of food draws them and keep your garage doors closed!!!! Ours isn't the only block that has this problem as I've heard from many others that they have the same issue. If you live near a mail station or water that seems to draw them.

[graciegirl]

It seems there is a real problem with rats in The Villages. Our whole block in Bonnybrook has had a problem with them. If you have a pest company please call them and have rat traps put down. Also don't leave any fruit laying on the ground and birdseed can also draw them. Check your grill too as the smell of food draws them and keep your garage doors closed!!!! Ours isn't the only block that has this problem as I've heard from many others that they have the same issue. If you live near a mail station or water that seems to draw them.

Please don't feed the birds. Please don't feed the birds.

Don't leave animal food on the lanai. Do not feel bad about not feeding the birds, the birds have plenty to eat provided by Mother Nature, on duty 24/7.

They are palm rats. We chose not to have palm trees.

[jsw14]

NO Rat's around here & we feed the birds. (no palms ether) To many squirrels around here that will eat the bird feed off the ground....

[Arctic Fox]

Please don't feed the birds. Please don't feed the birds.

Good advice.

A neighbor does and she has a whole menagerie in her garden, including rats and raccoons. (She probably has them in her roof as well, but is so deaf she can't hear them.)

[perrjojo]

no rat's around here & we feed the birds. (no palms ether) to many squirrels around here that will eat the bird feed off the ground....
yet!

[NotGolfer]

Please don't feed the birds. Please don't feed the birds.

Don't leave animal food on the lanai. Do not feel bad about not feeding the birds, the birds have plenty to eat provided by Mother Nature, on duty 24/7.

They are palm rats. We chose not to have palm trees.

We heard this when we 1st moved here....don't have palm or fruit trees or you'll have rats!! So we didn't!!! Our neighbors grow veggies and have had who eat them before they can be picked!!

[graciegirl]

///

[Sandtrap328]

I have lived in The Villages full time for 8 years. I have not seen any live rats. I have seen a few squashed rats on the MM trails. I have palm trees and citrus trees and my neighbor has a bird feeder. No rats! Maybe the rat sightings are squirrels?

[rubicon]

NO Rat's around here & we feed the birds. (no palms ether) To many squirrels around here that will eat the bird feed off the ground....

I hope what you say is true , and I know people will not like hearing this . However, my pest control company has stated that "The Villages" has a serious rat problem and they can't keep homeowners rat stations ( black boxes) filled fast enough.

The District needs to take a proactive approach both in education and operation to eradicate this problem. Ignoring it is only going to make it worse.

Please don't shoot the messenger

[graciegirl]

I hope what you say is true , and I know people will not like hearing this . However, my pest control company has stated that "The Villages" has a serious rat problem and they can't keep homeowners rat stations ( black boxes) filled fast enough.

The District needs to take a proactive approach both in education and operation to eradicate this problem. Ignoring it is only going to make it worse.

Please don't shoot the messenger

With all respect to you, the messenger, it is my opinion that I have heard many exaggerations and downright incorrect summaries from the decent and hardworking people who work for many companies and restaurants and all kinds of businesses here. One stood on my front porch recently and told me that he had met Gary Morse a few months ago.

So...I try to do what my high school teacher said as far as credible sources. I think there are plenty of rats here, but we are not like some New York apartment building from the thirties. Our team of snakes and eagles and hawks are working hard here 24/7 and just to prove my point, everyone should set a mouse trap and report back. Good cheese please. Some of them have been fed by gourmets.

[dewilson58]

If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

[graciegirl]

If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

Stand back....watch your shoes. oh barf.

[vj1213]

I posted this previously but I will say again there is a palm rat problem. One got in our garage and chewed all the wiring and hoses in our new vehicle. It caused computer issues....ended up costing over $3000 (thank God for insurance). Our agent told us Marion and Sumter counties had a lot of problems. One of our neighbors the rats are chewing thru the screens on his lanai and getting in...maybe toward the pool. I have seen them running around the rec centers and mail stations while I walk at night. Have also watched them run up the palms in middle of our cul de sac. All neighbors have traps. We went to the vcdd and were sent to property mgt., they came and put traps in the middle of the cul de sacs in our area. We were told there was a problem and the first question asked was does any of your neighbors have bird feeders.
We were told by insurance and dealership that newer cars have some type of soy coating on the wires that attracts the rodents

[Mleeja]

When the El Santiago Executive golf course was being redone last summer the homes around the course experienced rat problems due to the rat's natural habitat being disturbed. When El Diablo golf course redo was stated this summer, I heard via the pool grapevine the folks surrounding this course experienced the same problem. Lastly, earlier this summer standing on the #6 tee at the Mangrove executive course, we saw SEVERAL rats running back and forth between houses. Do not know what village parallels this hole. Any rate, played a Mangrove again last week and did not see any rats around the #6 tee.

[rubicon]

With all respect to you, the messenger, it is my opinion that I have heard many exaggerations and downright incorrect summaries from the decent and hardworking people who work for many companies and restaurants and all kinds of businesses here. One stood on my front porch recently and told me that he had met Gary Morse a few months ago.

So...I try to do what my high school teacher said as far as credible sources. I think there are plenty of rats here, but we are not like some New York apartment building from the thirties. Our team of snakes and eagles and hawks are working hard here 24/7 and just to prove my point, everyone should set a mouse trap and report back. Good cheese please. Some of them have been fed by gourmets.


I wish to God I could say you are right in this but the unfortunate truth is that this is a problem and it has to be dealt with on a community level. it does no good for one homeowner to treat the problem if others homeowners ignore it. lack of a sighting does not equate with absent the problem

The continuing expansion in TV and the warm winters are resulting in an increase in this population.

Forewarned is forearmed

[graciegirl]

i wish to god i could say you are right in this but the unfortunate truth is that this is a problem and it has to be dealt with on a community level. It does no good for one homeowner to treat the problem if others homeowners ignore it. Lack of a sighting does not equate with absent the problem

the continuing expansion in tv and the warm winters are resulting in an increase in this population.

Forewarned is forearmed

Rats!

[graciegirl]

I posted this previously but I will say again there is a palm rat problem. One got in our garage and chewed all the wiring and hoses in our new vehicle. It caused computer issues....ended up costing over $3000 (thank God for insurance). Our agent told us Marion and Sumter counties had a lot of problems. One of our neighbors the rats are chewing thru the screens on his lanai and getting in...maybe toward the pool. I have seen them running around the rec centers and mail stations while I walk at night. Have also watched them run up the palms in middle of our cul de sac. All neighbors have traps. We went to the vcdd and were sent to property mgt., they came and put traps in the middle of the cul de sacs in our area. We were told there was a problem and the first question asked was does any of your neighbors have bird feeders.
We were told by insurance and dealership that newer cars have some type of soy coating on the wires that attracts the rodents

There very well may be a palm rat problem but the word infestation brings other kinds of pictures to mind for most of us.

People who sell pest control aren't going to say there is no problem. I have seen no signs of rats in or near where we have lived in either Hadley or the location we live at now.

Infestation brings to mind this;

picture of rat infestation. - Bing (https://www.bing.com/search?q=picture+of+rat+infestation.&form=EDGHPT&qs=PF&cvid=0f3defeec0214892bc9f93d1285d286c&cc=US&setlang=en-US&PC=DCTS)

I still say don't feed birds and don't plant fruit trees or palms. The only critters messing with garbage I have seen or those big crows, Heckle and Jeckle.

[perrjojo]

You may never have seen a rat but trust me, there are plenty. There are MANY rats living in Live Oaks Park.

[graciegirl]

You may never have seen a rat but trust me, there are plenty. There are MANY rats living in Live Oaks Park.

Where is that?

[blueash]

I have been told palm rats genetically expect to find food at the base of little white crosses. Apparently those little crosses look like small palm trees to them. Then like those from NIMH they go out to seek new food locations. They are smart little guys. Perhaps there is some correlation of the proliferation of rats and the proliferation of little white crosses. Not sure yet.

[graciegirl]

You may never have seen a rat but trust me, there are plenty. There are MANY rats living in Live Oaks Park.

I looked it up. It is that small park adjacent to the cart path just west of Mission Hills off Morse, near 466. What would attract rats there? People picnicking and leaving left overs in the trash?

[borjo]

In the last 2 years between our dog, traps and poison put out by our pest control, we have eliminated 7 rats in Ashland. They're still eating the poison so it's far from over.

[graciegirl]

In the last 2 years between our dog, traps and poison put out by our pest control, we have eliminated 7 rats in Ashland. They're still eating the poison so it's far from over.

Ashland Pool was where the thread on Rats was about several years ago. What is the attraction? I can't find my glasses, but my memory on other things is still good..

Have a look;

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/rats-alligators-14999/?highlight=Rats+Ashland+pool

[Nucky]

I have lived in The Villages full time for 8 years. I have not seen any live rats. I have seen a few squashed rats on the MM trails. I have palm trees and citrus trees and my neighbor has a bird feeder. No rats! Maybe the rat sightings are squirrels?

Just wondering if the region language thing may be in gear here. Are the Extremely small Squirrel looking animals actually the things that are being called Palm or Tree Rats? If they are indeed called Rats in Florida then they would be called a Squirrel where I'm from in NJ. We had many Squirrels in NJ and many two legged Rats. I'm with Sandtrap, I think its an identification problem and you can't stop rats or squirrel but you don't have to give them a easy food source. What a terrible problem. I'd be the first one up on a chair. LOL.

[Miles42]

The big problem is with certain Palm tree variations

[Railcruiser]

Have had rats in Duval for years. One got chopped up in our air conditioner. Had traps set by a company laced with peanut butter not poison. Dogs would die eating a poison rat. We had to have the traps emptied so frequently that my husband was doing it. They smell horrible pretty quickly.We decided we had more rats with the traps. Our company agreed. The poison or the PB attracts the rats. No traps. Less rats.

[rubicon]

Have had rats in Duval for years. One got chopped up in our air conditioner. Had traps set by a company laced with peanut butter not poison. Dogs would die eating a poison rat. We had to have the traps emptied so frequently that my husband was doing it. They smell horrible pretty quickly.We decided we had more rats with the traps. Our company agreed. The poison or the PB attracts the rats. No traps. Less rats.

Railcrusier: Up to now I have been respectful and polite, and have held back details, to those posters who view this subject matter as if we were discussing UFO's .

About 7 years ago, I had my pest company place a black bait box in my yard as a precautionary measure because I live on a golf course. To my delight never had a problem. then about 2 years ago my landscaping people came upon a rat exiting this box.
to my delight the box was serving its purpose if a rat happened by.

Then about six months ago the results turned horrifying so much so that I have to patrol the perimeter of my property before my wife will go out and fuss with her plants, etc.

The horrifying results caused me to contact my pest control company. The worker answering the phone told me TV has a problem. I insisted on speaking with the pest control manager . My question was , "Is the black bait box the solution or the problem? He said the bait box is not drawing them. he explained that these rodents live within 100 square yards of that bait box.

The other day another horrifying experience and I called the pest control people again asking the same questions and asking for advice. A second Pest Control manager again stated that the bait station was not the problem.
Again, for the third time I was told there is a rat problem in TV and this manager added they could not keep the bait boxes filled fast enough.

A side bar" Pest control people gauge rat activity by the amount of poison consumed at each bait station . Up until 6 months ago they reported only little nibbles

I may not be the smartest bloke in the world but I do know the difference between a rat and a squirrel...and I do have a squirrel problem owing to pine trees located on the championship course in my back yard.

You will not hear this information from the Developer, the District, the Daily Sun, The POA, the VHA because they peddle the Disneyworld analogy of The Villages and the only rodent there is Mickey Mouse. Indeed we have posters on here whose head spin at the thought that TV is less than perfect.

The truth is the continuing expansion of TV for various reasons and the continuing mild winters have concocted a perfect storm for this problem. It needs to be dealt with and it needs to be dealt with on a community level.

so if we can keep residents minds off the dangers of a cart going 1-5 miles faster than they should we might get this problem addressed.

Personal Best Regards:

[graciegirl]

///

[perrjojo]

I'm with Rubicon. I know the difference between a rat and a squirrel. Jeesh! The rats in Live Oak Park live in the marshy area of he lake and come out on Sunny mornings to bask inthe sun. There was an infestation ( yes, I also know what infestation means too). We reported it to TV and soon after started seeing many dead rats in the park. Rats are still there, just not so many. Why are they there? Because they are just a part of Mother Natures brood.

[vj1213]

First, let me also say I know the difference between a small squirrel and a rat. The one that caused the damage in my garage was trapped. Secondly, I am not insinuating that we are over run with rats, but I for one experienced the damage that can be caused. These are not your big ugly NY city rats, they are palm rats, they are smaller. I have had a pest contol contract with Massey since I moved here, so no one swindled me by saying we had a problem. My opinion is even though you may not have seen a rat doesn't mean they aren't around...it's not like I see hoards of rats running around at any given time. There are fruit trees here, palm trees with berries and other vegetation and bird feeders which attracts these pests. It's not as though you need some to leave food or trash around. These are native rats so they are all around. I see them primarily at night when walking. I was told at property management there was a problem, I don't think they would have brought the bait boxes here if there weren't. If you look closely you will see the black bait boxes in the landscaping around rec centers and golf courses. They are here and can cause problems. I'm not a Village basher, not trying to discourage anyone from moving here, not saying we have an infestation...all I'm doing is sharing my personal experiences and saying I would recommend bait boxes around homes and don't feed the birds.

[autumnspring]

First, let me also say I know the difference between a small squirrel and a rat. The one that caused the damage in my garage was trapped. Secondly, I am not insinuating that we are over run with rats, but I for one experienced the damage that can be caused. These are not your big ugly NY city rats, they are palm rats, they are smaller. I have had a pest contol contract with Massey since I moved here, so no one swindled me by saying we had a problem. My opinion is even though you may not have seen a rat doesn't mean they aren't around...it's not like I see hoards of rats running around at any given time. There are fruit trees here, palm trees with berries and other vegetation and bird feeders which attracts these pests. It's not as though you need some to leave food or trash around. These are native rats so they are all around. I see them primarily at night when walking. I was told at property management there was a problem, I don't think they would have brought the bait boxes here if there weren't. If you look closely you will see the black bait boxes in the landscaping around rec centers and golf courses. They are here and can cause problems. I'm not a Village basher, not trying to discourage anyone from moving here, not saying we have an infestation...all I'm doing is sharing my personal experiences and saying I would recommend bait boxes around homes and don't feed the birds.

It is interesting that NATURE will always adapt to changes.
There are rats here. There have always been rats here.
WE all mioved in. Food is more plentiful so the number of rats has grown. NATURE will quickly establish a new balance.

I've not seen and rats on my property but I have seen them on the nature trail just a few blocks away so surely we have them or they will be moving in shortly. The black colored snakes that WE have are rat snakes-they keep the rats under control. The hawks, we have, also feed on the rats among other things. I believe, the hawks are the reason we do not have any pigeons-sometimes called flying rats.

RAT POISON? The commonly used rat poison is warferrin. It is actually a blood thinner. A mouse or a rat cannot throw up. The blood thinner causes internal bleeding. Since they can't throw up it kills them It is the chosen poison because if your dog or ????? eats it they will likely simply throw it up. Aside-if the poison sounds familiar from some drug ad. It is the same thing prescribed as a blood thinner for many heart patients.
SEVERAL PROBLEMS WITH RAT POISON-the rodent after eating the poison seeks water. They can and do chew through pipes to get it. Also, they likely will not die out in the open and you will have the smell from a dead rat for a long time.

THE OLD SPRING SNAP TRAPS-I've not seen them for sale in a long time. I assume you can still get them. I assume they have gotten more expensive-????? about $1.00 each but, they work. You know when you have gotten one and far less costly then calling an exterminator.

RE: NYC RATS
TRUTH-they are actually called Norway Rats oh and you can, someone probably already has, IMPORT THEM. They will surely kick the butts of the sissy palm rats we currently have.

[vintageogauge]

I once set one of those large spring loaded rat traps, got up in the morning and caught a dove. haven't used one since but they do work. I'm also always afraid of getting my finger smashed in one if them.

[Madelaine Amee]

I once set one of those large spring loaded rat traps, got up in the morning and caught a dove. haven't used one since but they do work. I'm also always afraid of getting my finger smashed in one if them.

We used one and caught a beautiful female cardinal and worse yet, the male would not leave her, and even after we cleaned up the mess he kept hanging around and hopping all over the area. I suppose I should have said "well it's just a bird", but we were broken hearted.

Now, however, we have a big ginger tom feral cat that I see from time to time. Nothing seems to survive that monster - I am a bit nervous around it and when it gives me the evil eye I just stand still and wait for it to stalk away.

[Arctic Fox]

I'm with Rubicon. I know the difference between a rat and a squirrel. Jeesh!

Yes, it's a bit rich for someone who hasn't seen a rat to assume that, therefore, it must be a squirrel and the rest of us are blind, stupid or both.

Massey put a spring-trap in our roof and it killed a rat. No bushy tail, and far from the point of entry along a well-worn run through the insulation (squirrels don't stray far from where they get in).

I personally think these rats are quite cute - they're not nasty sewer rats - but they can cause damage if they get into your roof.

[perrjojo]

Yes, it's a bit rich for someone who hasn't seen a rat to assume that, therefore, it must be a squirrel and the rest of us are blind, stupid or both.

Massey put a spring-trap in our roof and it killed a rat. No bushy tail, and far from the point of entry along a well-worn run through the insulation (squirrels don't stray far from where they get in).

I personally think these rats are quite cute - they're not nasty sewer rats - but they can cause damage if they get into your roof.
They also eat thru lanai screens and pond liners. They do also eat slugs and snails as well as other vegetation. They are just a part of Mother Natures plan and we have invaded their space just as with the alligators and just like gators, I don't want them in my yard. :laugh: having these rats does not mean this is a filthy community. It just means we need to try to incourage these guys to move on.

[Barefoot]

I have lived in The Villages full time for 8 years. I have not seen any live rats. I have seen a few squashed rats on the MM trails. I have palm trees and citrus trees and my neighbor has a bird feeder. No rats!
We've backed on a golf course for ten years, and we have palm trees.
We've never seen a rat, but perhaps that's because we have two dogs.
Also, we had a family of garter snakes living under our air conditioner.
I'm not afraid of snakes and they act as a good rat deterrent. I hope they're still living there when we return.

[autumnspring]

With all respect to you, the messenger, it is my opinion that I have heard many exaggerations and downright incorrect summaries from the decent and hardworking people who work for many companies and restaurants and all kinds of businesses here. One stood on my front porch recently and told me that he had met Gary Morse a few months ago.

So...I try to do what my high school teacher said as far as credible sources. I think there are plenty of rats here, but we are not like some New York apartment building from the thirties. Our team of snakes and eagles and hawks are working hard here 24/7 and just to prove my point, everyone should set a mouse trap and report back. Good cheese please. Some of them have been fed by gourmets.

First of all you will NOT catch a rat in a mouse trap-simply too small. YOU NEED THE BIG GUNS-A RAT TRAP. It looks about the same as the mouse trap only about 4 times larger.

CHEESE-that is from cartoons. Peanut butter works good.

RE: NY apartments in the 30's
We lived in QUEENS in the late 70's. Due to the EPA they outlawed the small incinerators commonly in all apartment buildings and the mouse population exploded. TRUTH I had never seen a mouse before that. They are interesting IN SOMEONE ELSES HOME. A mouse first of all is far smaller than MICKEY seems. They are quick. All you see is a, did I see that. They can squeeze though a 1/4 inch hole and they can have like 14 babies every 2-3 weeks.

Like everything else I viewed it as a game. Set three traps and get three mice on a good, or a bad night. Out of frustration and calling both the manager and the owner usually about 3 AM. One night I set 12 traps and got 11 mice. I had been deducting the cost of the traps from my rent and still not reaction. I loaded the 12 traps onto a shovel and dropped them in front of the supers door.

VOICE OF EXPERIENCE-cheese-they will nibble it off and not trip the trap. bacon-they will pull it off and not trip the trap. PEANUT BUTTER-they will try to clean their plate. MY SCORE- 11 OUT OF 12. Cheese runs about 1 out of three.

BOUNTY ON RATS? BIGGEST ONE? MOST CAUGHT IN A NIGHT? CATS? THE MALE MAY BE BIGGER BUT THE FEMALE IS THE HUNTER.

[rubicon]

I wonder why you have rats in your yard and we don't see any here..

Does someone nearby put out food for birds? Do you have a grill that may have leftover grease in it? Do you or your neighbors have fruit trees or palms that have food/and or habitat for them? Do your neighbors compost? What is used in the bait trap?

We have snakes. Our caution lights come on for raccoons and other usual night stalkers, but no rats. However, we have two feline companions who patrol the lanai and pool area inside the screen during the day only.. We don't feed them outside. We don't grill very often. I don't like cleaning the grill.

I naively believed I could do a sharing and an informational dialogue here on a problem that has been expressed by a number of other residents and supported with a validation from a prominent Pest control company but here we are again. so I say "never mine"

This issue is the same as any medical malady and it lays undetected until its too late

[graciegirl]

///

[doran]

I do not believe that rat tastes like chicken. To get rid of them in palm trees you need to form smooth metal around the trunk of the tree before the fronds. It should be 2' wide They can not climb over this as they slide off. I am surprised the folks in Florida do not do this, well, they do not trim the fronds either, which is not the right way to do it to get the best result from the palm . Sticky traps are better if you like to see and hear them plead for their lives.

[Barefoot]

Sticky traps are better if you like to see and hear them plead for their lives.
IMHO, sticky traps are unnecessarily cruel and inhumane.

[kstew43]

we used sticky traps........they are so horribly..... the dead rats are stuck and I used to get the landscaper guys to remove them for me. I couldn't even look at them....

We trapped snakes on the glue traps as well.....just as horribly.

but then the neighbors got a outdoor cat, and somehow the rats were no longer stuck on the traps..... just a new issue....cat spray on our front door...

happy daze....

[Wiotte]

Once I caught an entire family of mice on one sticky trap. Mom, Dad & 4 kids. They were still moving around when I found it. That was the first and last time I used them.

[rubicon]

sigh. Do pest guys ever say...You don't need traps. You have no rats.

Do insurance guys ever say...You don't need further coverage.

Does Gracie ever say...........I wish we'd chosen Phoenix or Miami.

I have been grumpy all day. My family wants me to move out.

The pest guy didn't ask. I initiated it because I live on a golf course because every golf course I played I saw rodents in plain sight.

And I don't care that rats are part of nature, I am a no critter guy no dogs, no cats, no anole's , no rats in my view of nature As I wrote a few years back If God had made us all vegans we would not be having this discussion right now:D.

Beside the bait trap. I wash all movable parts of my grille in the laundry room sink after every use. and I toss a grille out after 4 years for the same purpose

I periodically use binoculars and view the entire perimeter of the roof and gutters. I had my garage re-done with the intent of reducing any hiding places. One guy told me "You could live in your garage", rubicon.

I was grumpy yesterday also, and I don't know why? I told my wife I was going to bed early and hope to wake up a better person in the morning. She gave me a hug.

its now morning I am a better person.

Personal Best Regards:

[Lovey2]

OK...my idea on the rat "problem". I lived in southwest Florida, Cape Coral, for 23 years. I lived on a saltwater canal. I can tell you for a fact, the neighbors on either side of me had rats in their home. 1 property kept big bags of dog food in the garage and the rats got in to that on a regular basis, the other was a "snowbird" home, with lots of trees up by the roof line and little activity for months. The rats took up residence in their attic. I immediately called my pest control when I learned of the rats in the attic and subsequently the living area of the home next door. They refused to come out and trap! 2 reasons...1-the traps would draw the rats from the home next door to MY home and 2-I had a cat in residence (they know this because I was adamant about NOT spraying inside the pool cage from the outside). Also...very important...I had NO trees or plants up against my house. The few palms I had were far enough away and were trimmed regularly. I have never seen cabbage palms NOT trimmed in populated areas until I moved here. Rats and roaches live in those dead frond bases. They need to be trimmed and striped off. But that's another story. And most of those are far enough away from the homes. I decided to not plant palms when we came here for that reason, and for lack of good space, nor do I have anything up against the house. Yes, any food you leave outside will draw critters...that includes bird seed (snakes and rats), grill "stuff" and kitty food. Oh, I had a grill outside on the lanai for most of those 23 years and never had anything eat their way in. I will say, I have seen 2 (!) roaches since I've been here. By rec centers! That is amazing... Anyway, I guess we just all need to be vigilant and keep our eyes (and ears...for the attics) open, but I would NOT trap, if you don't have a problem. Make sure your neighbors are taking care of the problem, but do not draw the problem to you.

[graciegirl]

The pest guy didn't ask. I initiated it because I live on a golf course because every golf course I played I saw rodents in plain sight.

And I don't care that rats are part of nature, I am a no critter guy no dogs, no cats, no anole's , no rats in my view of nature As I wrote a few years back If God had made us all vegans we would not be having this discussion right now:D.

Beside the bait trap. I wash all movable parts of my grille in the laundry room sink after every use. and I toss a grille out after 4 years for the same purpose

I periodically use binoculars and view the entire perimeter of the roof and gutters. I had my garage re-done with the intent of reducing any hiding places. One guy told me "You could live in your garage", rubicon.

I was grumpy yesterday also, and I don't know why? I told my wife I was going to bed early and hope to wake up a better person in the morning. She gave me a hug.

its now morning I am a better person.

Personal Best Regards:

You couldn't be better. You are a wonderful man and I admire you as we all do. I can tell you are well ordered and very clean. I have never doubted that everything you say is honest and well thought out. I don't want you to have rats. I don't want any of us to have rats.

Helene just now reported that one of our cats, Bootsie, is watching a bunny having breakfast through the screen. She has reported several times on an increasingly bigger snake who now appears to have children. We have a squirrel that she points a hose at when it runs over the bird cage. It taunts the kitties.

[Henryk]

If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

OMG! Now THAT was uncalled for.

[BamaBoy451]

If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

LOL.:1rotfl:

[It's Hot There]

OMG! Now THAT was uncalled for.

No, it was extremely funny.

:eclipsee_gold_cup:

[BamaBoy451]

Sweet smokey barb or Sweet thai chili ?

[graciegirl]

Sweet smokey barb or Sweet thai chili ?

barf

[John_W]

The secret to feeding the birds is going to the Wild Bird Center and buying Safflower seeds. They're in the Crossroads Shopping Center down from Best Buy next to Fantastic Sams Hair. I don't believe anyone else sells it locally, I think Amazon might have it. The seed is not liked by squirrels, black birds and we have never seen a rat in over 5 months of feeding the birds. This morning we saw a rabbit eating the seed on the ground. As far as I know, rabbits and rats are enemies, so to me that's another good sign. If you want song birds and none of the pests, then get Safflower seeds, don't confuse it with Sunflower seeds.

[joldnol]

The freakin palm trees attract them

[Barefoot]

The secret to feeding the birds is going to the Wild Bird Center and buying Safflower seeds. If you want song birds and none of the pests, then get Safflower seeds, don't confuse it with Sunflower seeds.
I didn't know that - thanks for posting.

[Inexes@aol.com]

The secret to feeding the birds is going to the Wild Bird Center and buying Safflower seeds. They're in the Crossroads Shopping Center down from Best Buy next to Fantastic Sams Hair. I don't believe anyone else sells it locally, I think Amazon might have it. The seed is not liked by squirrels, black birds and we have never seen a rat in over 5 months of feeding the birds. This morning we saw a rabbit eating the seed on the ground. As far as I know, rabbits and rats are enemies, so to me that's another good sign. If you want song birds and none of the pests, then get Safflower seeds, don't confuse it with Sunflower seeds.

Petsmart sells the safflower bird seed.....

[Inexes@aol.com]

Petsmart sells the safflower bird seed also......

[pvb526]

I didn't think I did either until a rat trap was put down and the bait was taken!!!

[Bobbyb]

In the last week we've killed at least three rats using rat traps and bait. One in our Lanai.

[afecher]

Could someone let the cats out?

[caitzach]

Never had any until neighbor moved in and was sloppy with her bird feeders and seed on the ground. Have had bait stations for months and the bait is being taken. They will find ways into your attic. Not seeing them does not mean you don't have them.

[graciegirl]

///

[vj1213]

Safflower seeds are one of the recommended foods if you have a pet rat

[FromNY]

I have come in after dark many a night and have seen these critters scurrying across the streets. In Bonnybrook there is a dog walker whose dog has killed a few and whose attic had to be treated as the well known pest control company found the beedy eyed critters there. To those who have not seen and desire to ignore simple helpful ways to decrease the rats that's your choice. The birds are well fed by Mother Nature and the hawks help keep the vermin population down. It is humans who leave food out that set the balance off. Wildlife is precious and common sense is sometimes in short supply. The black box is only part of the solution and it does help.As my parents taught " You have a choice ,be part of the solution. Or be part of the problem.

[Debbraham]

I've heard this and then read this.."State law reads: “Except as otherwise authorized in these regulations or in the Fish and Game Code, no person shall harass, herd or drive any game or nongame bird or mammal or fur-bearing mammal. For the purposes of this section, harass is defined as an intentional act that disrupts an animal’s normal behavior patterns, which includes but is not limited to, breeding, feeding or sheltering. This section does not apply to a landowner or tenant who drives or herds birds or mammals for the purpose of preventing damage to private or public property, including aquaculture and agriculture crops.”
So does this mean it's actually illegal to have a bird feeder???

[graciegirl]

[///

[Retiring]

Are the wild birds around TV starving to death?? I used to be one that had bird feeders but my desire to not have rats outweighed my desire to feed wild birds. I don’t understand the stubbornness of some here on this forum. If the community has a rat problem, regardless of whether the rat problem affects YOU, stop the bird feeding. Put the feeders away for your neighbor’s sake. There are times in our lives when we must put others first, that includes total strangers. As for the safflower seeds, at least one website lists it as food you can give your pet rat.

[autumnspring]

It seems there is a real problem with rats in The Villages. Our whole block in Bonnybrook has had a problem with them. If you have a pest company please call them and have rat traps put down. Also don't leave any fruit laying on the ground and birdseed can also draw them. Check your grill too as the smell of food draws them and keep your garage doors closed!!!! Ours isn't the only block that has this problem as I've heard from many others that they have the same issue. If you live near a mail station or water that seems to draw them.

We do not have a bird feeder but, I recall reading that birds cannot taste hot pepper but squirrels can. The suggestion was to mix cyanne pepper with your bird seed.

I'm sure to get yelled at anyway. The article CLAIMS the pepper does not hurt the birds. A squirrel, is, well a RAT with a fuzzy tail.

[Barefoot]

Safflower seeds are one of the recommended foods if you have a pet ratGood to know, thanks.

[justjim]

We have never had a bird feeder and never had a rat issue. While living in The Villages the last 10 years, never saw a rat. Perhaps this means something or perhaps not.

[borjo]

We have never had a bird feeder and never had a rat issue. While living in The Villages the last 10 years, never saw a rat. Perhaps this means something or perhaps not.

We've been here 13 years and never saw one either BUT we saw their droppings in our grill on the drip pan when we went to clean it. Then when we started looking for droppings, lo and behold we saw more on our porch. That's when we got the black plastic boxes from our pest control company. As I mentioned before, between traps, our dog and the poison, we got at least 7 rats within 1-2 years. Imagine what that number would be if everyone got 7 rats? We're just one little house on one tiny lot. They're here.

[justjim]

Since rats are purported to live in Palms, I wonder how many would live in those bearded palms that are planted all up and down the "Highways and byways" of The Villages. Just a thought.....

[perrjojo]

Since rats are purported to live in Palms, I wonder how many would live in those bearded palms that are planted all up and down the "Highways and byways" of The Villages. Just a thought.....

I think it would helpful ( more attractive too) if TV would trim all of the dead fronds from the Cabbage Palms. I doubt that will ever happen though.

[jsw14]

OOoo Rat's, so that's where they come from....:22yikes:

[Villageswimmer]

I think it would helpful ( more attractive too) if TV would trim all of the dead fronds from the Cabbage Palms. I doubt that will ever happen though.


Too expensive. And just because you've never seen one, it doesn't mean they're not there. We had one of those deck boxes on our patio one year. In it, we had stored half a bag of potting soil. Nothing else. We came back after being away for the summer. When I lifted the lid, guess what "flew" out?! You guessed it! It had apparently thought the potting soil was a cozy place for a nest.

I screamed loud enough for neighbors to come running. Needless to say, we now buy our potting soil in very small bags and never store it.

BTW snakes are everywhere, too. Don't kill them. We need them to check rats and other pests.

Hey, this is Florida. If they're not in your house, you don't need to worry about them.

FWIW, they love citrus as much as palms.

[PNaughton]

You may not see the rats around your feeder but chances are good that they know where to find a free meal. I saw them around my back yard feeder got rid of the feeder and fed the rats some poison and end of problem. The birds now eat bugs and seem happier.

[Barefoot]

Same as justjim; lived in TV for ten years. We've never seen a rat, and never had a bird feeder.
However we have two dogs which may have something to do with it.

[Sgroemm]

I think it would be helpful if those who have seen or caught the rats, identify which village or area of the villages you are located in. I wonder if it is a localized problem or wide spread?

[jsw14]

I think it would be helpful if those who have seen or caught the rats, identify which village or area of the villages you are located in. I wonder if it is a localized problem or wide spread?

IDENTIFY,,,,,,Geeesss, Rat's can go anywhere they want too........

[manaboutown]

If one traps rats one might not want to throw them away. Apparently, in Bordeaux, alcoholic rats caught in wine cellars are treasured for their flavor. They are eviscerated, skinned and coated with olive oil and crushed shallots, then grilled over a fire of broken wine barrels. Yum!

Some recipes from around the world Cooking Rats and Mice (http://bertc.com/subfive/recipes/cookingrats.htm)

[manaboutown]

We do not have a bird feeder but, I recall reading that birds cannot taste hot pepper but squirrels can. The suggestion was to mix cyanne pepper with your bird seed.

I'm sure to get yelled at anyway. The article CLAIMS the pepper does not hurt the birds. A squirrel, is, well a RAT with a fuzzy tail.

I wonder if the birds feel any burn from the hot pepper when they excrete it...

[Sgroemm]

Rats form family groups and are territorial, especially common brown rats (also called Norway rats or Hanover rats.) They live in hierarchical groups. I think it would be helpful to pinpoint where we are seeing them. Personally I have not seen evidence of any in Rio Grande.

[Hopeful2]

I think it would be helpful if those who have seen or caught the rats, identify which village or area of the villages you are located in. I wonder if it is a localized problem or wide spread?

I am also wondering if it's a localized problem, versus wide-spread. We have lived here for four years - south of 466A, in Collier. We are on the water and we and many of our neighbors have palm trees. We have never seen a rat or evidence of one where we live; nor have our neighbors.

[Carl in Tampa]

OK, dear friends, I have the answer to "The Villages Rat Problem" if there is really such a problem.

1. Every home should have a Rat Terrier or some similar dog, such as a Jack Russell Terrier. These, active, feisty little dogs are (literally) death on rats.

Don't deceive yourselves that a cat will do.

2. Protect your garage, which cannot be sealed against entry by rodents, snakes, etc., by putting out rat poison or sticky traps, at your option. I prefer sticky traps. The poison or traps must be positioned so your dogs cannot get to them.

3. A trap in the attic, if you have access, would be a good idea as well. This is the most likely place that you might have a rat problem.

Do these three things and your house should be secure from rats. As far as it goes with rats outside, as someone has already observed about other wildlife: you are in Florida. Get used to it.

By the way. Keep your terrier on a leash whenever outside. The instinct to chase rats, squirrels, and other critters is very strong, and voice command would likely not be sufficient restraint.

(Terriers need a lot of exercise. Walking them daily would probably be good exercise for you too.)

Whoever said "you can't buy love" never owned a dog.

.

[manaboutown]

But thy are so cute! Adorable rat portraits look to remove stigma attached to rodents (https://www.yahoo.com/news/adorable-rat-portraits-look-remove-slideshow-wp-090032501.html)

[rubicon]

I think it would be helpful if those who have seen or caught the rats, identify which village or area of the villages you are located in. I wonder if it is a localized problem or wide spread?

I spoke to three different people from my Pest Control Company. they all confirmed it is a " community "problem vis a vis "a select village problem. they explained that they can't keep the bait boxes filled fast enough.

My wife believed I was making too much of this and laughed when I complained that she was leaving the garage door up too long; that is until she happened on one in our yard. Since then it has been a joint and continuous campaign of prevention and eradication

I suspect the reason some people have not spotted these critters is because a) they are not really looking', b) those who have have bait boxes

Look at the layout of TV, its trees, thick vegetation approximate closeness of homes, expansion, mild winters and its a recipe for a perfect storm

[rubicon]

If you can't beat 'em, eat 'em.

( Forgive my lapse but I can see his face but momentarily forget his name). However he was one of Nixon's staff that went to prison during the the Nixon Watergate scandal and when he was released became a celebrity with a radio talk show.

A movie on his life was made and two unforgettable events presented to define who he was as a person.As a boy he climbed a tree during a heavy lightning storm daring God to strike him dead. And again as a boy decided to go to his basement, catch rats and eat them because he was afraid of them and did not want to be afraid of anything.

[graciegirl]

( Forgive my lapse but I can see his face but momentarily forget his name). However he was one of Nixon's staff that went to prison during the the Nixon Watergate scandal and when he was released became a celebrity with a radio talk show.

A movie on his life was made and two unforgettable events presented to define who he was as a person.As a boy he climbed a tree during a heavy lightning storm daring God to strike him dead. And again as a boy decided to go to his basement, catch rats and eat them because he was afraid of them and did not want to be afraid of anything.

Good morning sir. Trying to not think of rat eating.

Thoughts this morning are of Irma.

I don't like rats but I dislike category 5 Hurricanes more. Do we take the kitties and get out of Dodge?

[Barefoot]

OK, dear friends, I have the answer to "The Villages Rat Problem" if there is really such a problem. Every home should have a Rat Terrier or some similar dog, such as a Jack Russell Terrier. These, active, feisty little dogs are (literally) death on rats. Don't deceive yourselves that a cat will do.
Protect your garage, which cannot be sealed against entry by rodents, snakes, etc., by putting out rat poison or sticky traps, at your option. I prefer sticky traps. The poison or traps must be positioned so your dogs cannot get to them.
A trap in the attic, if you have access, would be a good idea as well. This is the most likely place that you might have a rat problem.
Good idea to get a dog. Bad idea to take dog to a Shelter when the rats are gone.
Don't get a dog because you have rats -- you have to love animals, dogs are a lot of work.
Sticky traps are inhumane and horrible.
No-one wants rats invading their home, the professionals use bait boxes. Good idea about the attic.

[John_W]

( Forgive my lapse but I can see his face but momentarily forget his name). However he was one of Nixon's staff that went to prison during the the Nixon Watergate scandal and when he was released became a celebrity with a radio talk show...

Would it be G. Gordon Liddy? I moved here from Abingdon, Maryland and G. Gordon Liddy lived in Abingdon from 2001 to 2006. I looked up the info on him when I kept seeing him around town, he had such an unmistakable face. I had a business that required I go to the post office everyday and I would see him there at least once a week. We also took my mother once a week to Bob Evans and would see Mr. Liddy there as well. I don't know why he picked out that town, it was a good ways from Washington, not distance wise but heavy traffic. Abingdon is about 20 miles northeast of Baltimore. He looked exactly like his photos, always a very stern look and well dressed, not someone I would want to have a scuffle with even though he was about 75 at the time.

http://cdn.quotesgram.com/img/14/82/1478831596-g-gordon-liddy.jpg

[LadyPenO]

Citrus tree fruits also attract rats and other nuisance animals. So be safe and put the traps down before rats are in our homes.

[rubicon]

Would it be G. Gordon Liddy? I moved here from Abingdon, Maryland and G. Gordon Liddy lived in Abingdon from 2001 to 2006. I looked up the info on him when I kept seeing him around town, he had such an unmistakable face. I had a business that required I go to the post office everyday and I would see him there at least once a week. We also took my mother once a week to Bob Evans and would see Mr. Liddy there as well. I don't know why he picked out that town, it was a good ways from Washington, not distance wise but heavy traffic. Abingdon is about 20 miles northeast of Baltimore. He looked exactly like his photos, always a very stern look and well dressed, not someone I would want to have a scuffle with even though he was about 75 at the time.

http://cdn.quotesgram.com/img/14/82/1478831596-g-gordon-liddy.jpg

John , yes thank you what an interesting guy. His life story was fascinating. Talk about living a spartan life

[rubicon]

Good morning sir. Trying to not think of rat eating.

Thoughts this morning are of Irma.

I don't like rats but I dislike category 5 Hurricanes more. Do we take the kitties and get out of Dodge?

apparently my wife went to Public at Southern Trace and the shelves were empty. She spoke to one of our neighbor's who works there and he said it was extremely busy all day. for me i won't turn my attention away from what I believe is the current problem Irma has to wait until the weekend:D

[manaboutown]

Wondering what would happen to rats during a natural disaster such as a hurricane I found this from the CDC which is highly informative about controlling their presence in general. Rodent Control|Natural Disasters and Severe Weather (https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/rodents.html)

[ronsroni]

Weeeeee,doggies! We have a lovely; energetic palmer rat named Jethro. We have 12 palm trees on our patch of Heaven.
Sadly, some folks are PLACING FULL LOAVES OF BREAD on the ground at the postal station behind my villa. Folks are also creating kitty condos in the bushes.
Sweet BUT.... COME ON. Use yer NOGGINS.
Leaving foods around creates issues everywhere. My small dogs go insane chasing the critters well into the night. We keep the trees trimmed up and no foods are provided for the critters. It's bad enough that we have to clean up poop from the lazy and entitled pet owners. Now duking it out with Jethro and friends is just over the top. With the construction happening at Publix on 441, more pals are surfacing. Please BE CONSIDERATE.

[jsw14]

Hmmm, I can see this RAT thread isn't go'in away anytime soon...

Please pick-up ur dog poop... the Rat's just might make a meal out of it when it dry's out over night....


p.s. Just a thought, what day do U put out ur garbage? Do U put it out the night before, or just in time when the truck come's around to pick it up?

[Love2Swim]

I have lived in The Villages full time for 8 years. I have not seen any live rats. I have seen a few squashed rats on the MM trails. I have palm trees and citrus trees and my neighbor has a bird feeder. No rats! Maybe the rat sightings are squirrels?

Reminder - rats are nocturnal. You probably won't see them during the day.

[Carl in Tampa]

Would it be G. Gordon Liddy? I moved here from Abingdon, Maryland and G. Gordon Liddy lived in Abingdon from 2001 to 2006. I looked up the info on him when I kept seeing him around town, he had such an unmistakable face. I had a business that required I go to the post office everyday and I would see him there at least once a week. We also took my mother once a week to Bob Evans and would see Mr. Liddy there as well. I don't know why he picked out that town, it was a good ways from Washington, not distance wise but heavy traffic. Abingdon is about 20 miles northeast of Baltimore. He looked exactly like his photos, always a very stern look and well dressed, not someone I would want to have a scuffle with even though he was about 75 at the time.

http://cdn.quotesgram.com/img/14/82/1478831596-g-gordon-liddy.jpg

I knew Liddy at the White House. Some space opened up in the office next to mine and I tried to get it because it was a corner office. I didn't get it. Later I found out that it went to The Plumbers, headed by G. Gordon Liddy.

He did that thing of his of holding a flame under his forearm longer than anyone else to show he could handle the pain. He certainly beat me. Of course, I'm sane.

[justjim]

If one traps rats one might not want to throw them away. Apparently, in Bordeaux, alcoholic rats caught in wine cellars are treasured for their flavor. They are eviscerated, skinned and coated with olive oil and crushed shallots, then grilled over a fire of broken wine barrels. Yum!

Some recipes from around the world Cooking Rats and Mice (http://bertc.com/subfive/recipes/cookingrats.htm)

Manaboutown, if I ever decide to eat Rat it would likely be this delicacy you speak of in this post. Rat from a wine cellar, Yum you say! The closest delicacy to cooked rat is cooked rattlesnake that my uncle brought to a party one year at a family gathering. He never told anyone what it was until much much later. I remember---it wasn't really that bad. Yum....

[rubicon]

Weeeeee,doggies! We have a lovely; energetic palmer rat named Jethro. We have 12 palm trees on our patch of Heaven.
Sadly, some folks are PLACING FULL LOAVES OF BREAD on the ground at the postal station behind my villa. Folks are also creating kitty condos in the bushes.
Sweet BUT.... COME ON. Use yer NOGGINS.
Leaving foods around creates issues everywhere. My small dogs go insane chasing the critters well into the night. We keep the trees trimmed up and no foods are provided for the critters. It's bad enough that we have to clean up poop from the lazy and entitled pet owners. Now duking it out with Jethro and friends is just over the top. With the construction happening at Publix on 441, more pals are surfacing. Please BE CONSIDERATE.

Just plain irresponsible and illogical

[rubicon]

Manaboutown, if I ever decide to eat Rat it would likely be this delicacy you speak of in this post. Rat from a wine cellar, Yum you say! The closest delicacy to cooked rat is cooked rattlesnake that my uncle brought to a party one year at a family gathering. He never told anyone what it was until much much later. I remember---it wasn't really that bad. Yum....

i have a brother who was always an adventurer. he has eaten snake, camel, bear.........

Me the most exotic I dare go is veal.

Goat was once the most eaten meat worldwide but has been overtaken by chicken because of the ability to raise them so rapidly and at a heavier weight (more meat). this has caused what experts refer to as woody chicken breast.

Personal Best Regards:

[TimeForChange]

Several places sell the black bait boxes. The best is Rural King in Leesburg. That is the only thing I would use....they work. Before we moved to a home on Belle Glade we had a lot of mice and rats in TV of Charlotte. Had bird feeders and seven palm trees. Here in the new home we have no palms and no bird feeders. Therefore only a slight problem with field mice but have solved that one.

[ronsroni]

My brother has an apartment in Tudor City, NYC. The building he lives in is on E. 42 St between 1st and 2nd Avenues. This is around the corner from the UN. If you have been to NYC for pleasure, you may know where the UN is. Great part of The City. Nestled just off of 1st Ave, there is a lovely park above 42nd St .. Well, one summers eve, James and I went to sit in the park having coffee and conversation. As we chatted, I noted that the ivy ground-cover moved a bit in MANY areas. James explained that we had about 7 minutes to liftoff. Apparently, the nocturnal landlubbers surface as the sun departs the visible sky and THEY WANT THEIR BENCHES!!! Yes, indeedy. These cat-rats were fat rats. fat, Fat, FAT and made their presence known. Rat bite is no fun and I avoid it at all cost. Roaches and rats.... no F---U---N at all! The old timers there are realists and they SHARE the real estate as there is little chance of the Pied Piper skipping along blowing TAPS. They adapt. I LOVE NEW YORK! (the villages aint bad, neither.) nomesayin?

[autumnspring]

NO Rat's around here & we feed the birds. (no palms ether) To many squirrels around here that will eat the bird feed off the ground....

A squirrel is but a RAT with a furry tail.

As to RATS, that little ???? nature preserve behind Eisenhower rec center has RATS. I've seen snakes chasing rats there. Interesting someone said that Rats and bunnies do not live together. They must have signed an agreement with the UN I've also seen a huge bunny and last month about 6-7 young ones

It is interesting to watch some of the pampered dogs around here walk right past foliage where I know ther is a rat or a rabbit and the dog either does not know or does not care.

NATURE IS TRULY AMAZING. Far as RATS-for centuries they have survived man's attempt to get rid of them.
They have in the past,AND WILL AGAIN survive the HURRICANE.

[tuccillo]

Irma will be drowning all the rats very soon ;-)

[Carl in Tampa]

Good idea to get a dog. Bad idea to take dog to a Shelter when the rats are gone.
Don't get a dog because you have rats -- you have to love animals, dogs are a lot of work.
Sticky traps are inhumane and horrible.
No-one wants rats invading their home, the professionals use bait boxes. Good idea about the attic.

First, a dog in every house was a joke.

Second, no one said to take a dog to a shelter when the rats are gone. They will never be gone.

Sticky traps are good. They don't kill the animal. You can take them to the edge of the woods and release the animal from the sticky trap by pouring vegetable oil on the paper. (Read the instructions.)

Bait boxes kill the rats with their poison bait. This is more humane than catch and release?

[Sandtrap328]

Irma will be drowning all the rats very soon ;-)

I don't know about that. I was at BassPro and saw a group of rats buying rat-size life jackets and an inflatable raft!

:22yikes:

[Barefoot]

First, a dog in every house was a joke.
Sticky traps are good. They don't kill the animal. You can take them to the edge of the woods and release the animal from the sticky trap by pouring vegetable oil on the paper.
That's very humane to catch and release rats.
You are quite right, catch and release is much more humane than poisoning them.
I didn't think your idea about getting a dog was a joke. I thought it was a good idea.
We have two dogs and I've never seen a rat.
But then someone said rats are nocturnal, so perhaps they dance and party after we've gone to bed.

[rubicon]

Had the pest control mgr come to my home to do an inspection of the premises and the attic. He found no evidence of a problem in my attic , operative words "no evidence"

As to my property the gentleman observed potential problems because my back yard is adjacent to a long championship course hole adorned fully with high oriental grasses and a pond katty corner to my house.

He did not find fault with my landscaping nor its maintenance. He noted that I have french drains and the one downspout open on my driveway had been screened off as also being sound prevention.

He placed a second bait box on my property explaining that its a good defense against pests trying to breach a home.

He said his company is out of bait boxes. He said that since we spoke last spoke 8/29 his phone has been non stop with calls concerning about rat breaches

I was told that The Villages a few years back contracted with the pest control companies to treat palm trees as an eradication process. Why they stopped the program, or if this information is accurate is unknown by me?

[graciegirl]

Had the pest control mgr come to my home to do an inspection of the premises and the attic. He found no evidence of a problem in my attic , operative words "no evidence"

As to my property the gentleman observed potential problems because my back yard is adjacent to a long championship course hole adorned fully with high oriental grasses and a pond katty corner to my house.

He did not find fault with my landscaping nor its maintenance. He noted that I have french drains and the one downspout open on my driveway had been screened off as also being sound prevention.

He placed a second bait box on my property explaining that its a good defense against pests trying to breach a home.

He said his company is out of bait boxes. He said that since we spoke last spoke 8/29 his phone has been non stop with calls concerning about rat breaches

I was told that The Villages a few years back contracted with the pest control companies to treat palm trees as an eradication process. Why they stopped the program, or if this information is accurate is unknown by me?

The little bustards are gonna have to swim or air glide.

Hope they and us are here on Tuesday.

[EPutnam1863]

According to one source on the Internet, a rat can have as many as 20,000 babies a year, depending on the size of the mommy rat. Another source says 15,000 in two years.

[Wiotte]

According to one source on the Internet, a rat can have as many as 20,000 babies a year, depending on the size of the mommy rat. Another source says 15,000 in two years.



That’s a lot of rats...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Taltarzac725]

That’s a lot of rats...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Eaten by coyotes, cats, hawks, snakes, owls, foxes, etc. Enemies and Predators of Rats (https://www.orkin.com/rodents/rats/enemies-and-predators-of-rats/)

[Wiotte]

Eaten by coyotes, cats, hawks, owls, etc.



The circle of life.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171023/c01b25d3f7bdcb0099f4561d21ec350f.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[bbbbbb]

[QUOTE=rubicon;1442413]I hope what you say is true , and I know people will not like hearing this . However, my pest control company has stated that "The Villages" has a serious rat problem and they can't keep homeowners rat stations ( black boxes) filled fast enough.

The District needs to take a proactive approach both in education and operation to eradicate this problem. Ignoring it is only going to make it worse.

Just a comment. Not all rats have the same feast. But some of them do have fun tearing open bags at the street and getting the goodies. Because?
Due probably to the food particles people place in the bags. Nature prepared our rats with good sniffers to detect and good little sharp claws to tear open plastic bags, so they do have the tools to do the job.
Rats like to eat.
bbbbbb :22yikes:

[angiefox10]

I'm told that people who have cats and people who feed feral cats do not have a rat issue.

We have rats in Sanibel. I am now getting a kickplate for the bottom of my lanai to keep them out.

Disney, NY and Chicago use cats to control the rats.

i think it's time to consider TNR, Trap Neuter and Release

Google it. It works!

Yes!!!! We have a rat problem.

[Mrs. Robinson]

Please don't feed the birds. Please don't feed the birds.

Don't leave animal food on the lanai. Do not feel bad about not feeding the birds, the birds have plenty to eat provided by Mother Nature, on duty 24/7.

They are palm rats. We chose not to have palm trees.

I hope what you say is true , and I know people will not like hearing this . However, my pest control company has stated that "The Villages" has a serious rat problem and they can't keep homeowners rat stations ( black boxes) filled fast enough.

The District needs to take a proactive approach both in education and operation to eradicate this problem. Ignoring it is only going to make it worse.

Please don't shoot the messenger

Residents do not feed the birds because they feel sorry for them or because they think they need the food. They feed the birds because it gives them pleasure in watching them.

I have been feeding birds for many years and will continue to do so. I have not had any rats and only an occasional squirrel.

As far as TV being proactive in the rodent problem. Ha-ha-ha. Surely you jest. It ain't gonna happen!
The larger TV gets, the bigger the problem.

[Halibut]

Are we talking about species rattus palmarum? FWIW, the palm rat is listed as Vulnerable (VU), considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

[Two Bills]

Encourage feral cats into the area. They will reduce the rat population dramatically.

[Debup1]

Just bought a home south of 466A and have 3 in our traps in the garage! Have not moved in yet and hope we can figure out how to keep them out.

[8notes]

We live near Sumter Landing and see the black rat boxes everywhere. We have seen some live rats as wel

[graciegirl]

Rats and compost. What say you?

[Wiotte]

Just bought a home south of 466A and have 3 in our traps in the garage! Have not moved in yet and hope we can figure out how to keep them out.



Duval ?


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[Mrs. Robinson]

Rats and compost. What say you?

Most compost bins have secure closures, many of which lock with a clamp or with a top that screws on like a lid.
Not a problem.

What is a problem is plastic trash bags in the street overnight and the residents who put garbage (any type) in these bags.

[Wiotte]

Most compost bins have secure closures, many of which lock with a clamp or with a top that screws on like a lid.

Not a problem.



What is a problem is plastic trash bags in the street overnight and the residents who put garbage (any type) in these bags.



The CDD’s put the garbage out in plastic bags. I don’t like it, although my expensive trash can’s still look almost new.


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[8notes]

I hope what you say is true , and I know people will not like hearing this . However, my pest control company has stated that "The Villages" has a serious rat problem and they can't keep homeowners rat stations ( black boxes) filled fast enough.

The District needs to take a proactive approach both in education and operation to eradicate this problem. Ignoring it is only going to make it worse.

Please don't shoot the messenger

I agree. Our neighborhood near Sumter had the same issue, and the pest companies said the same thing. We have the black boxes now and the rats are under control. You can see the boxes at the post office stations and the rec centers too. Rats are nocturnal. People don't see them during the day, so they want to think they aren't here, but they are.

[Fredman]

Most compost bins have secure closures, many of which lock with a clamp or with a top that screws on like a lid.
Not a problem.

What is a problem is plastic trash bags in the street overnight and the residents who put garbage (any type) in these bags.

Rats can eat through concrete

[New Englander]

Rats can eat through concrete

Really?

[DeanFL]

NO Rat's around here & we feed the birds. (no palms ether) To many squirrels around here that will eat the bird feed off the ground....

Ditto here - bird feeder, and only birds there - no squirrels or rats at all. Perhaps we are lucky.

I think all the rats in The Villages will go back up north by May. :MOJE_whot:

[TimeForChange]

It seems there is a real problem with rats in The Villages. Our whole block in Bonnybrook has had a problem with them. If you have a pest company please call them and have rat traps put down. Also don't leave any fruit laying on the ground and birdseed can also draw them. Check your grill too as the smell of food draws them and keep your garage doors closed!!!! Ours isn't the only block that has this problem as I've heard from many others that they have the same issue. If you live near a mail station or water that seems to draw them.

Large Washingtonian Palms with the dead lower whisker's are a perfect nesting place. Bird feeders are a definite draw. The best thing is to either purchase the black bait boxes and the bait or hire any of the pest control people. The best place to purchase the bait boxes is Rural King in Leesburg. The bait will kill the rats if you put enough of them out and keep them baited. The bait causes them to bleed internally and die...yuck!

[joldnol]

birdseed can also draw them. Check your grill too as the smell of food draws them and keep your garage doors closed!!!! Ours isn't the only block that has this problem as I've heard from many others that they have the same issue. If you live near a mail station or water that seems to draw them.

It's not the birdseed it's the freaking palm tree's all of the carpetbagger's put in. The palms you use are primarily not native to Fla but you guys think it's not Florida if you don't have a foreign palm in the yard.

[biker1]

I have palms and I don't have rats.

It's not the birdseed it's the freaking palm tree's all of the carpetbagger's put in. The palms you use are primarily not native to Fla but you guys think it's not Florida if you don't have a foreign palm in the yard.

[champion6]

I have palms and I don't have rats.
:agree:

[Chi-Town]

It's not the birdseed it's the freaking palm tree's all of the carpetbagger's put in. The palms you use are primarily not native to Fla but you guys think it's not Florida if you don't have a foreign palm in the yard.Them dern carpetbaggers. [emoji20]

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