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The tail is squirrel-like and bushy. They use their long tails for balance while climbing and jumping, and for added warmth. These rodents are good climbers and have sharp claws. Its adult length is 11 to 18 inches, half of which is its tail. Typical weight is around 1.3 lbs. Their droppings or usually glossy black or dark brown and are about the size of a jellybean.

Pack rats can be a serious medical concern because they can transmit the potentially fatal virus that causes Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. This virus is mainly transmitted by the inhalation of dust particles contaminated with the urine, feces or saliva of infected pack rats. Due to the nature of "packing" their nests they often steal shinier things from people's home such as silverware, candlesticks, jewelry, and construction tools.

Pack rats are solitary rodents but can sometimes pair up when infesting homes. They tend to feed at dusk and dawn, preferring insects, seeds, nuts, berries, and small fruits. They prefer to nest in dark, secluded areas and often build nests out of paper products, shiny things, cotton, packing materials, wall insulation and fabrics. Are generally mistrusting of new things being added to their environment, unlike mice, but are more outgoing and curious than most rat species.

Breeding occurs in spring and summer (May through August), with a gestation period of about five weeks. A female may have one or two litters each year. Litters can range in size from two to six, with a typical litter size of three. Pack rats generally live 1-3 years in the wild without human or predator interruption.

• Crawlspaces
• Attics
• Garages
• Kitchen cabinets
• Sheds
• Vehicles

Most effective solution for rats is the implementation of an integrated pest management program (IPM).  This includes but is not limited to the use of pest exclusion inside and outside of the home, cutting back foliage near structural foundations, consistent trapping within target areas, and the addition of artificial treatments around structures.