How Are Rats Important?

Rats are an important part of the ecosystem. Their breeding season peaks in early September. As autumn approaches, rats migrate indoors to find shelter. When they do, they cause a considerable amount of damage to property. The problem with rat infestations is that they can be difficult to detect. A few rats in a house can quickly turn into a huge infestation.

Rats can spread disease and cause food poisoning. Since they like to trudge through garbage and feces, they can contaminate foods. Among the most common illnesses they can cause are salmonella and leptospirosis. These diseases can cause fever and muscle aches. In some cases, leptospirosis can lead to meningitis.

A small number of rats can be poisoned or trapped to reduce the problem. However, if there is a large infestation, the solution is to change the habitat. Rats are not carriers of rabies, but they can carry other diseases. To control the problem, communities should work together. You can also starve the rats and cut off their water supply. This way, the rats will turn to eating each other.

Rats have a very important function in the ecosystem. They are opportunistic eaters and part of a predatory ecosystem. Rats are also a source of food for a number of other species of animals. They are also the carriers of many disease vectors.