Beware the patter of tiny feet above your head. Residents have reported an outbreak of roof rats in the Los Altos neighborhood between San Antonio Road and Los Altos High School.
Former Los Altos Mayor Ruth Koehler saw a roof rat in her driveway. Her neighbor sighted four rodents caught in outside traps. "They're such a health hazard," Koehler said, adding that roof rats are known to carry diseases, including the bubonic plague. Roof rats can be identified by the tail, which is longer than the body. The rats weigh about 5 to 9 ounces and are 7 to 10 inches long.
The Santa Clara County Vector Control Web site states that roof rats are "an ongoing problem" in Santa Clara County. Ivy, overgrown vegetation, and fruit left lying on the ground are roof rat fodder. The rats easily scurry up walls and utility lines, and like vine-covered fences and trees. The Web site suggests residents keep garden areas tended, especially near buildings; ensure air vent screens are hole-free; and check for any other possible access holes. Place traps or rodenticides outside to draw rodents away from attics or interior rooms.
Since roof rat populations can quickly multiply, a rapid response will help curb local rat packs.
If you believe you have roof rats, call Santa Clara County Vector Control Rodent Specialist Tony Basuini at (800) 675-1155, or see the Web site at http://www.netmagic.net/~tietze/vector/index.htm.