Columbus just landed on a not-so-glamorous list—-it’s officially one of the most rodent-infested cities in the United States, according to a new study by Terminix. Joining cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, Columbus ranks as the 25th most rodent-ridden metro in the country. And if that’s not enough, Cleveland and Cincinnati also made the cut, proving that Ohio’s got more than just football and cornfields to deal with.
The study, based on Terminix’s 2023 service data, highlights cities where residents have been frequently calling in for rodent control services. Factors like population density, food availability, and milder winters can attract these unwanted furry visitors—and let’s just say, Columbus has been playing host to more than a few uninvited rats and mice.
Signs You’ve Got a Rodent Problem
Wondering if your home might be on a rat’s radar? Here are some telltale signs that you’re sharing space with rodents:
- Droppings: Found in drawers, along walls, or under furniture.
- Gnaw marks: On food packaging, wires, or even your floorboards.
- Nests: Look out for chewed paper or cardboard piled up in quiet corners.
- Unusual sounds: Scratching or thumping in your walls or ceilings.
- Footprints: Rodent trails in dust or debris, complete with tiny footprints and tail drags.
While Columbus may not have the swarms of rats that plague places like NYC, it’s important to take action at the first sign of infestation. Rodents can carry diseases, chew through wires, and cause serious damage to your home.
Rodent Control in Columbus
The most common rat you’ll encounter in Columbus is the brown rat, a hefty rodent that can grow up to 18 inches long. Before you freak out, that length does include the tail, but it’s still big.
These guys are particularly sneaky and can squeeze through holes as small as half an inch wide. Another less common but equally frustrating pest is the roof rat, known for its agility and love of high places. Roof rats are usually found in attics or on roofs, happily munching on fruits, nuts, and even slugs.
Thankfully, Columbus offers a rat control program through the city’s public health department. If you’re having trouble keeping rats at bay after taking preventive measures, you can report a complaint to Columbus Public Health by calling 311 or visiting their website.
Preventing a Rodent Invasion
Want to avoid joining the ranks of Columbus residents battling rats? Here are some handy tips to keep them out:
- Seal entry points: Patch up any cracks around doors, windows, or foundations.
- Store food properly: Use airtight containers and keep kitchen surfaces crumb-free.
- Keep trash secure: Bag trash properly, and make sure lids on bins are tightly sealed.
- Limit nesting sites: Organize cluttered spaces like attics or basements, where rats love to hide.
Ohio may be home to some beautiful nature, but the rats? Not so much. Whether you’re in the heart of Columbus or out in the suburbs, rodent prevention is key to keeping these critters from making your home their next stop.
Featured image by David Shankbone (CC BY-SA 3.0).