Norway Rat
Rattus norvegicus
Norway Rat Facts
The Norway Rat, also known as the brown, house, wharf or sewer rat, is originally from Asia, but can be can now be found wherever people are. They reproduce all year long if indoors, but outside, they mate in the spring or fall. Most live from 5 months to a year and feed primarily on a diet of grains, meats, seeds, roaches, and fruit.
Norway Rat Damage
Preferring more than just cheese, these rats will eat whatever foods you have lying around. Norway rats damage crops before and after harvesting. Structural issues may also occur from burrowing and gnawing, weakening interiors. Munching on electrical wires will cause short circuiting and malfunctioning in appliances. Rats can also transmit a variety of harmful diseases to humans and other animals. Some of these include: murine typhus, leptospirosis, trichinosis, salmonellosis, rat bite fever, and occasionally plague. These diseases are often severe and range from flu-like symptoms to bleeding and discoloration. Fleas that are living in the fur of rats are the actual transmitters of these illnesses. If you experience any unusual symptoms within a few days of coming into contact with these rodents, seek medical attention to prevent progression of any sickness.
Norway Rat Infestation
Droppings can be found near shelters or feeding areas. Usually you’ll notice small tracks in dusty or muddy surfaces. You might also find urine odors in feeding areas, or smudge marks from oil rubbing off their bodies along the routes they travel. Gnaw marks are common around ledges, walls or on stored materials. Sounds of squeaking, clawing, or even fighting among rats in your walls, or beneath your floors can be a sure sign you have a Norway rat infestation.
Types of Norway Rats
Norway Rat Identification
Can grow to be up to 18 inches long when you include their tails. Their fur is grayish brown while their ears and tails are hairless
Norway Rats In The Walls & The House
These rats live right alongside people. They may be hiding in cellars, warehouses, slaughterhouses, docks, and sewers. If you live on a farm, look out for these pests in granaries, silos, and livestock buildings. Nests are found under buildings, concrete slabs, near streams and ponds, and even in garbage dumps. As long as they have food and shelter, they will make their home anywhere they can.
Frequently Asked Questions About Norway Rats
What do Norway rat droppings look like?
Adult Norway rats can produce thousands of droppings in a very short period of time, so even if you aren’t seeing rats, you may find their droppings. Their fecal matter is usually dark-colored, about 1⁄2 inch in length, and pointed on both ends.
How do you control a Norway rat infestation?
In order to stop the rats from entering in the first place, seal up any holes and openings around your home. Use sturdy materials like concrete or metal. Changing their habitats may help, too. Keeping your home free of clutter and garbage, and storing food in airtight containers will discourage rats from sneaking around for snacks. Cleaning up any crumbs or spills immediately after they occur is also essential. Outside your home, trim back bushes, shrubs, and trees to reduce any shelter they may provide. Clearing any debris and other organic material from the property is also helpful. While keeping clean is the best way to discourage them, scaring them away may be quick short-term solution. Rats easily adapt to strange noises, so this may only clear them on a few occassions. Using chemicals will also deter or kill these pets. Contact pest professionals for the best way to proceed with these products if your problem persists. H3: Benefits of Professional Norway Rat Pest Control A pest management professional has the education, equipment and skills necessary to effectively address a Norway rat problem. Finding and treating the Norway rats can be challenging, especially if they are spread throughout your yard. A pest management professional provides their expertise to identify the pest problem and determine the best possible solution to resolve the Norway rat infestation.
