Pack Rat Nests: Finding Them and Dealing With Them

If you've found a tidy heap of sticks, cactus pieces and junk under the deck, in the shed or under the hood, you've met a pack rat. University of Arizona Cooperative Extension describes woodrat nests as built from sticks, cactus and other debris, and says a single site can be used for generations.

Pack rats are native, and they're common around Albuquerque's edges. They also show up on the City of Albuquerque's list of rodents involved in plague, so a nest close to the house deserves attention.

Extension lists the base of a tree or shrub, the middle of a prickly pear, rock overhangs, attics, garages, under houses and engine compartments of cars that don't get driven. Around here that means junipers along a back wall, woodpiles, sheds on the edge of open space and the car that sits in the side yard.

• Under decks, sheds and stored lumber
• At the base of junipers and cactus
• In garages, crawl spaces and attics
• Under the hood of a seldom-used car or RV

Extension notes that hantavirus and other diseases can be present in woodrat nests, and says to soak a nest with disinfectant before disturbing it. Fleas are the other concern in plague areas. Wear gloves and long sleeves, and never fling nest material or a dead animal with a shovel. The city's plague guidance says exactly that.

Extension says exclusion and barriers are the most effective way to deal with woodrats getting into buildings, and that trapping alone isn't a long-term fix. A provider will usually trap, seal the buildings and then clear the nest. Pack rat control has the details, and rodents in cars and garages covers engine nests.

Clear brush and rock piles near the house, keep firewood on a rack and off the ground, and don't leave pet food out. That takes away the reasons to rebuild.

• Pack Rat Control
• Rodents in Cars and Garages
• Sealing and Exclusion

More guides: Hantavirus-safe cleanup / Plague, fleas and pets / Deer mouse or house mouse? / Mice when the nights turn cold