Pest library» Rodents» Norway rat

Norway rat

 

Norway rat

Rattus norvegicus

 

 

 

 

 

Appearance: More stout and huskier than the roof rat, the Norway rat weighs between 9-12 ounces and can be as long as 17 inches including its tail which can be 7 to 8 inches.

Behavior:
Unlike roof rats, the norway rat is more at home on ground level. Nevertheless, they are still good climbers and have been observed travelling along utility wires. When these rats take occupancy in a house they typically nest in floor insulation in the crawlspace and leave at night to search for food. Norway rats are prolific breeders and can have as many as 12 in a litter. They give birth between 21-23 days after mating and can reproduce at only 3 months of age.

Food Habits
Norway rats are omnivores and will eat anything and everything available to them. Fruit, meat, and grains are all included in their diet. They have been documented eating eggs and even young chickens.

Signs of Infestation

•Urine smell coming from crawlspace.

• Droppings in your garage, basement or crawlspace.

•Small chew marks on plastic bins or garbage containers.

•Burrows along the foundation of your house or next to fences