The bins go out. The lights go off. Then something clocks in. A torn corner of a dog food bag, a scrape behind the skirting or a trail of droppings by the back door could be your first clue that a rat has found somewhere worth coming back to. The Fermanagh Herald has reported rodent sightings from residents in Enniskillen’s Cornagrade area. For homes and businesses across Fermanagh, it’s a timely reason to check the places you pass every day and rarely look at twice. Read the Fermanagh Herald report⁠

What rats leave behind when you’re out of sight

A rat crossing the garden may be passing through. If you keep seeing one in the same place or find several of these signs together, it’s worth getting the property checked.

* Dark, pellet-shaped droppings along walls, behind appliances or near stored food.

* Fresh gnaw marks on food packaging, timber, plastic or cables.

* Scratching or scurrying behind walls, under floors or above ceilings, especially after dark.

* Greasy marks along skirting boards or walls where rats repeatedly travel.

* Burrow openings near sheds, decking or compost heaps, especially where there’s cover.

Rats can contaminate food and surfaces with urine and droppings, and their gnawing can damage wiring. If you run a café, hotel or shop, a sighting by the back door is a reason to check the bin store, delivery entrance and stockroom too. British Pest Control Association guidance on rats⁠

Take your property off the menu

A split bin bag beside a poorly fitting back door gives a rat two reasons to stay. It has a meal outside and a way in. Start by checking where food, shelter and access come together.

* Put the food away. Store pet food, bird seed and dry goods in sturdy containers with tight-fitting lids. Clear spilled feed and bring pet bowls in overnight.

* Make bin night less inviting. Keep lids shut, replace damaged bins and clear food waste from yards and bin stores.

* Check the gaps. Look beneath doors and around pipes, and check for damaged vents or drain covers. If you suspect rats are already inside, have the entry points assessed before sealing them.

* Keep a record. Note where and when you saw the rat or found signs. At work, ask staff to log sightings too. A pattern can help a technician work out where to look first.

Found the signs? Call Concept Pest Control

Seen a rat indoors, found droppings or noticed activity returning to the same spot? Call 028 9061 0999 to book a rodent inspection.

Our qualified technicians provide discreet rat control for homes and businesses in Enniskillen and across Fermanagh. We’ll look for where rats are feeding, sheltering and getting in, then recommend treatment and proofing for your property. 24/7 emergency callouts are available.

T: 028 9061 0999 | E: pestcontrol@the-concept-group.com | W: conceptpestcontrol.co⁠