The Pacific Northwest is home to several species of rats, each exhibiting unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in diverse environments ranging from urban areas and forests to arid regions. The most common species seen here in Washington are the Norway rat, roof rat, bushy-tailed woodrat, and kangaroo rat. Adaptations of the Norway Rat […]
How Rodents Impact Public Health in Seattle Neighborhoods
It is no secret that Seattle and its surrounding area have a problem with rodents. Rats have found Seattle and the Pacific Northwest and its sprawling metropolis an extremely welcoming haven. Public health can quickly be impacted by these insidious critters. Therefore, we need to understand the risks and know how to respond. What are […]
How Seattle’s Climate Affects Rodent Populations Year-Round
Seattle is home to more than its fair share of rats. It has become a breeding ground for all sorts of rodents. Rats love to call Seattle home for many reasons, including a climate that is attractive year-round. Rodents have long found Seattle and the Pacific Northwest a great place to call home. Here are […]
Rats and Their Sense of Smell
While home and business owners might not find much to love about rats – the beady-eyed rodents that gnaw, spread disease, and invade our dwellings – there are some intriguing facts about this ubiquitous animal. Recent studies continue to shine a light on these fascinating critters. Rats have long been known for a keen sense […]
Unusual Rat Facts & Unique Rat Behaviors
The greater Seattle area has a lot to offer, from the views of the water to the mild summers. Unfortunately, these conditions make it an attractive home to rats and other rodents. Many of us have had to protect our homes and businesses from rats for years, but what do you really know about rats […]
Are Rats Spreading the Bird Flu Virus?
A recent finding in Riverside County indicates that rats may indeed be playing a role in spreading the bird flu virus. In late January 2025, the US Department of Agriculture confirmed the presence of the H5N1 avian influenza in four black rats found in Riverside County, CA, which has recently experienced a bird flu outbreak. […]
How Does Cascade Handle a Rodent Infestation?
While no one ever wants to play host to mice and rats, they live among those of us who reside in the Seattle region. So, knowing how Cascade handles a rodent infestation is a common question we get often. Question: How Does Cascade Handle a Rodent Infestation? Rats and mice have been plaguing residents of […]
When to Call an Exterminator for Mice & Rats?
Eeek! No one wants to see a mouse or rat scurry across the floor, but unfortunately, it is an all too common site for business and home owners in the Pacific Northwest. Rodents are commensal animals who have a long history of living alongside humans. With the food, shelter, and safe havens we provide, why […]
Rat Superhighways: Navigating Cities & Spreading Disease
As long as humans have graced these shores, so have the rats. They have thrived in our trash and survived in our homes. Rats seem to be part and parcel of urban living. And they aren’t going away any time soon. In fact, rats are a growing problem in and around the Seattle area. More […]
How to Keep Rats from Infesting Your Urban Chicken Coop
Increasingly, city-dwellers in the Pacific Northwest are embracing the backyard chicken coop. And why not? Chickens can be maintained in a relatively small space and they provide fresh eggs, natural pest control, and improved soil quality. So if you have the space, it is a wonderful way to use it. But there is a not-so-welcome […]