Hi there again neighbors,

 

Thanks for the many responses we received regarding the rat problem.  We do not keep food / dog food or garbage in our backyard and there is no standing water.

 

There is a large brush pile that is close to our fenced in yard that may be housing the critters. We are still investigating that.

 

I am hoping that this little guy got flooded out of the sewer and just "surfaced" as one person had pointed out.

 

I called Animal Control ( 412-255-2325) who promptly arrived at my home and took the rat away. My 2-yr old cried when they took him away.....she thought the rat was here to stay. : )Oh well, he is probably in now rat heaven.

 

The Animal Control people gave me Rodent Control dept in Public Works and suggested that I contact them if I see other rats. 412-255-2339

 

I am putting my trap out again tonight to see if there are any other rat friends out there.

 

Someone suggested contacting the Zoo about getting rid of future rats?  I suppose there are some hungry critters there who like rats for dinner.  Has anyone had any experience with contacting  the Zoo to dispose of rats?

 

I'll keep everyone posted on the rat situation.

 

Thanks again for your responses,

 

Lori