Norway Rats

Also known as brown rats, Norway rats are one of the most common species of rats in the world. They belong to Muridae family and Rattus genus. The biological name of a Norway Rat, is Rattus Norvegicus. They are very active during the night and known to be expert diggers. They are pretty good in communication as well. Parents easily make out their pup’s noises, thanks to the ultrasonic vocalisation technique that they have mastered. When they face any dangers, they immediately alter their noise volumes so that they can alert their parents.

Appearance

As their name suggests, brown rats (Norway Rats) have a brown body with grey or white interiors. Most of the species are around 25cm in length. Their tails are quite short– sometimes shorter than their bodies. They have black hairs scattered all over their bodies and have four legs. Though they are named as Norway Rats, they are found all over the worlds. Their origins are believed to be in Asia. They are known for their sharp teeth and they keep moving around in a rapid pace. They live in all places that are inhabited by human beings. Their total weight comes up to around 500 grams.

Food habits

Known for their gnawing skills, these Norway rats usually live in moist and dirty areas. This is one of the main reasons as to why they are quite difficult to catch as well. They eat anything like fruits, vegetables, meat, nuts, grains and all food items that are consumed by human beings. They also drink a lot of water. This is why we find most of the rat burrows near water sources. Be sure to check your water pipes frequently as Norway rats have the uncanny skill to gnaw on pipes and cause leakages in them.

Are they dangerous?

Norway rats carry disease causing germs; therefore it is indeed dangerous to live in the same place as them. Bites from these rats can cause ailments like jaundice, rat-bite fever, cow-pox, plague, Q fever and other serious pulmonary disorders.

How to identify infestations

One of the most ways to identify infestations from Norway rats is through their droppings. They are in the size of capsules and black in colour. Hence it is easy to spot these droppings in your home. Also, check your building to see if there are any burrows around it. If yes, you should expect infestations from Norway rat in your place. You can check for their presence by testing them with food items. Try leaving a rotten fruit in the open during the night and check in the morning for any gnaw marks or other bite indications. These marks definitely prove the presence of Norway rats.

How to control infestations

If you want to keep Norway rats at bay, you should keep your house clean of all debris and garbage. Clear your homes all kinds of waste –food and otherwise. Moist areas are one of the favourite breeding places of these rats. Therefore, you have to correct all plumbing related problems immediately. Keep your lawns and gardens safe and weed-free, so that the debris don’t attract infestations from Norway rats.

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