Norway rats (rattus norvegicus) are one of the most common species of rats in the world. They are also known as brown rats, sewer rats, or simply “common rats.” Norway rats live alongside humans and are especially troublesome in urban environments. Good rat prevention and control measures are essential to keep these pests away from your home.
Identifying Norway Rats
Norway rats can be either gray or brown in color and tend to have lighter undersides. They also have small ears and blunt noses. They are larger than most rat species, weighing up to 18 ounces. An important identifying characteristic that can help you distinguish Norway rats from their smaller cousin, the roof rat (AKA black rat) is the length of the tail. Roof rats have tails that are longer than the combined length of their head and body. Norway rats have tails that are shorter than the head and body length, which can be around 11 inches long.
By Tomas Čekanavičius [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]
Norway Rat Behavior
Norway rats are omnivores that will consume nearly anything. They are known for having excellent hearing and sense of smell. They are also excellent swimmers and diggers. Norway rats tend to live close to the ground or beneath it. Examples of their homes include: sewers, cellars, and underground burrows.
Rat Prevention
Rats enter homes and yards in search of food, water, and shelter, so eliminating these things is your best bet. If you want to keep rats and other rodents away from your home, try some of these tips.
- Seal the exterior of your home
- Keep your yard clean and tidy
- Trim bushes and shrubs
- Don’t store firewood near your home, and keep it off the ground, if possible
- Make sure your trash cans are covered with lids
- Cover compost piles
- Make sure your drain covers are in good repair
- Don’t leave your pet’s food and water outside overnight
- Get rid of excess moisture by fixing leaky pipes and faucets and unclogging gutters and downspouts
Rodent Control
Rodent prevention efforts might not always be enough. If you are experiencing problems with Norway rats, roof rats, mice, or any other rodent, call the professionals at Six Brothers Pest Control. Our friendly and knowledgeable technicians will customize a plan to get rid of the problem and keep your family comfortable and safe. For Kansas City Pest Control, Dallas Pest Control, and Salt Lake City Pest Control, Six Brothers is your best bet. Guaranteed.
