‘Oh Rats!' New Construction Breeds New Problem In Celina Subdivision

Families who live in a new Celina subdivision are dealing with a rat problem that pest experts blame on construction and tall grass.

The population boom in North Texas has caused more families to move north to cities like Celina. Most of the property in the town of about 7,500 is farm land and factories.

A new subdivision, Light Farms, was built on top of farm land. The manicured grass is kept tall to give a country aesthetic, but residents say it has helped create a problem.

“The tall grass is also appealing to rodents,” resident and Stampede Pest Control owner Kent Hooper said. “Rats and mice, they are attracted to the tall grass. They can live there and be covered.”

Residents have already spotted packs of rats throughout the neighborhood, including their garages and back yards. Pest experts say the problem is not unique to Celina.

“I get most of calls from Prosper and Celina. Those are the two cities with new construction on open land," Hooper said. "The rodents were here first. We are building on their territory. Any time you have new construction, you’re going to have an issue with rats. The tall grass doesn’t help, and the cooler temperature pushes them to find shelter.”

The developers of the Light Farms subdivision sent us the statement below:

“As the Light Farms community continues to grow, one of the hurdles we regularly face as a developer is the displacement of wildlife such as rodents due to new construction in close proximity to fields, forests and creeks. We notified residents last week of steps the Light Farms HOA is actively taking to address the rodent population, which included increasing the number of bait stations and traps in the neighborhood, as well as contracting with a pest service. Additionally, the HOA coordinated mowing of ornamental grasses throughout the community last weekend to help prevent future issues. We are committed to tackling this issue head on with our residents, and encourage any Light Farms residents who would like additional information to contact the Light Farms Homeowners Association team.”

The property management cut down some of the grass and, according to residents, bait boxes have been placed around the subdivision.

Homeowners should be aware of any signs rodents have entered, gnawed through or are living in their homes. To stop rats from entering your home, all crevices in the wall or foundation should be sealed. Make sure all open piping inside and outside of the home are secure and tightly closed.

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