Rodent Control

Due to recent urban development in North Richland Hills, rodents have been displaced from their natural habitat. Rodents, like other wildlife, have also moved closer to inhabited areas of the city in their drive to locate a water source. They are extremely adaptable and can thrive nearly anywhere. If these animals can find food, water, and protection from the elements, they may not leave the area. This web page will provide you with information on what you can do to help control rodents.

Suggestions for residents include:

• Do not leave pet food out. Store pet food in a secure container, and throw away any uneaten food.
• Store garbage in metal or heavy plastic containers with tight lids.
• Place trash outside shortly before pickup; don't leave plastic garbage bags out overnight.
• Keep the grass cut short, remove weeds and debris near homes and in yards; don't give rats a place to hide.
• Sweep up food remains, litter, and trash inside and outside your home.
• Clean out storage and garden sheds and garages and use shelving and wall units to store items up off the floor. Avoid piles of papers, clothes, boxes, etc. which provide perfect nesting areas for rodents.
• Remove junk vehicles, old boats, trailers, auto tires, etc. which also provide nesting places.
• Remove rodents' water sources; check all outside faucets to ensure that they do not leak, and eliminate areas of standing water.
• Inspect your home and foundation for cracks and holes; seal them with mortar.
• Rodents can climb walls, so make sure and seal any holes along the eaves.
• Make sure you have screens on windows; inspect windows and screens for holes.
• Keep outside doors closed; use metal trim to prevent rodents from gnawing and entering underneath.
• Do not provide hiding places for rodents; Raise wood piles up off the ground on a rack with a clean, open area underneath. Get rid of unused materials and junk.
• Contact your local exterminator or purchase traps at local feed stores and other retail outlets.

The City of North Richland Hills Neighborhood Services will monitor the situation and respond to citizens' concerns. Residents are strongly encouraged to follow the above suggestions in order to discourage the presence of rodents in the neighborhood. For additional information, please contact Neighborhood Services at 817-427-6570.