Pest library» Rodents» Roof rat

Roof rat

 

Roof rat

Rattus rattus

 

 

 

Behavior:
Roof rats are nocturnal pests and get their name from being agile climbers. They forage for food in elevated areas and often use trees and phone lines to gain access to buildings and houses. Roof rats can climb vertically up most surfaces, like brick face and wood siding. They are also excellent swimmers and often use sewer systems for traveling.

Food Habits:
Like most rats, roof rats will eat anything. Being omnivores, they are opportunistic creatures and will feed on everything from garbage to birdfeed. If a roof rat finds a food source in your pantry it will contaminate more food than it will actually eat.

Roof rats typically forage for food after sunset, and are known to stash food in large amounts to be eaten later.

Signs of Infestation

• Dark marks on the outside of buildings where they have climbed and the oil and dirt from their fur has rubbed off.

• Trails and burrows in your attic insulation.

• Because these rats tend to inhabit attics and spaces between floors, visual signs of their presence is usually scarce.