Two species of rats have been identified on Bald Head Island.  One is the native cotton rat, the other is the non-native roof rat. 

Cotton rats generally avoid residential homes, as they prefer natural habitats. According to the Bald Head Island Conservancy, the cotton rat plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. They are a source of food for other island species, including hawks, owls, foxes, raccoons, coyotes, and snakes.  Unlike the cotton rat, the roof rat is known to damage properties since they like to gnaw. 

The population of both species has fluctuated over the years depending on the presence of predators. They can also be more visible depending on the weather. Rainfall drives them out of their burrows.

What You Can Do to Control Rats

Survey the exterior of your house to make sure there are no entry points for rodents or any wildlife – opossums, squirrels, and raccoons have also been known to cause property damage.  Be careful to check entry points for electrical and plumbing, appliance, and bathroom vents.

• Block access points – island contractors are available to assist.
• If you have rats inside your home, consider using traps.  This prevents dead rodents from rotting behind walls or insulation. Professional exterminators can provide effective traps when traditional traps fail.  If you are considering using poison (pesticide) please consider the information below and don’t apply it yourself!
• Do not leave pet or bird food or other food scraps outside or in garage/crofter areas.
• Seal trash cans tightly (notify renters of the importance of this).
• Keep native plants and habitats around your house to provide space for rat predators like foxes and snakes to assist in keeping the population in check.  All plants should be pruned as appropriate within a few feet of buildings (observing BHA covenants).
• Have regular professional home inspections and sealing performed to ensure the home is sealed to prevent rodent invasion.  Monthly inspections should be considered if the home is unoccupied for long periods.

Use of Pesticides

Pesticides used for controlling rat populations (called rodenticides) are usually enhanced with flavorings such as peanut butter or molasses, attractive to children, pets, and our BHI wildlife (foxes, raccoons, etc.).  These rodenticides are highly toxic and present a significant danger to the community and the ecosystem if used improperly inside and especially outside the home.  Please use rodenticides in the home in extreme cases, and if possible, consider hiring a professional exterminator.  These service providers have access to EPA-approved bait and bait stability “traps” that can be deployed in a manner that reduces the threat to children, pets, and wildlife.  The BHI Conservancy has observed wildlife on BHI that died due to exposure to rat poison (although no toxicological exam was conducted).

Source: BHI Conservancy