Many decorative cacti species are more attractive than natural cacti (rats eat cactus).
Irrigated plants are more attractive especially during dry spells (pack rats get moisture from what they eat, they don't need to drink water).Bobcats choose easy to catch birds at bird feeders vs.Poison baits kill many raptors (owls & hawks) through secondary poisoning.Rattle snakes are often killed or removed.Many predators prefer to avoid homes, pack rats do not.Poison bait boxes are a favorite place to hide and even build a nest in.Large decorative rocks & rock retaining walls provide ideal harborage.Non-natural nesting opportunities - pool equipment, AC's, cars, attics, sheds.Irrigation leads to increased plant growth.Non-native plants provide nesting opportunities.Rain run-off from roofs, patios, driveways and streets increases available vegetation.More Harborage (places to build safe nests) Unfortunately even with “natural” landscaping around homes the balance of nature is changed and pack rat populations can increase to unnatural levels due to: In a balanced environment, pack rat populations are an important and beneficial part of nature. If you were a rat, where would you want to live?. Nests are vectors for disease including:Ĭompare the difference - natural desert versus near a home.Nests attract snakes, skunks, foxes, coyotes and bobcats.Urine and fecal material become abundant.Avid chewers, often chewing on and through wires in cars, attics, spas and pool heaters.Offspring seek nesting opportunities in cars, pool equipment and even get in to the ceiling voids of homes.Damage and destroy landscaping from nesting and feeding.Nests harbor blood sucking kissing bugs (conenose bugs), fleas, lice, brown spiders, scorpions, and mice.Pack rats and people don’t go well together. The presence of additional fortification material is the telltale sign that distinguishes a pack rat nest from that of a squirrel or other rodent.Will fortify the nest with additional material including cactus, rocks, sticks, dog droppings and just about anything else they can find.Potential nesting area is any sheltered area including: cacti, bushes, trees, rock crevices, pool heaters, spas, car engines, ceiling voids, gas grills, under sheds, and wood piles.Will reuse existing empty nests before starting new nests.Must have shelter! Cannot survive when exposed to extreme heat, cold or direct sunlight.Gives birth to 2-3 young every 6 to 8 weeks.Obtain moisture from what they eat and therefore do not need free-standing water.Primary foods are cactus and mesquite beans, but will eat just about anything.Size: up to fifteen inches & eight ounces.Coloration is dark gray-brown on top with a lighter underbelly.Tail is thick, round, blunt-ended, covered with short hairs and is shorter than the body.Nocturnal common in the southwest desert.
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