Wildlife Damage Management, Internet Center for
Date of this Version
July 1994
Abstract
Eight species of woodrats (genus Neotoma) occur in North America. Locally known as pack rats or trade rats, these rodents are about the size of the common Norway rat. They are distinguishable from Norway rats by their hairy rather than scaly tail, soft, fine fur, and large ears. They usually have light-colored feet and bellies.
The Key Largo woodrat (Neotoma floridana smalli) was federally listed as endangered in 1991.
Exclusion: Woodrats can be permanently excluded from buildings.
Cultural Methods: Not generally useful. Trim lower branches of citrus trees.
Repellents: None are registered or considered effective at this time.
Toxicants: Anticoagulants (registered in some states). Zinc phosphide (registered in some states).
Fumigants: Not useful.
Trapping: Rat snap trap. Live traps. Burrow-entrance traps. Glue boards.
Shooting: Limited usefulness.
Other Control Methods: Destruction of dens.