Norway Rat

The Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus) is also known as the  Brown Rat,

Sewer Rat, Wharf Rat and Water Rat. It is the most common rat found

in North America today!

Here are some Norway Rat facts:

• Mostly brown in color with black and gray
• Snout is blunt, ears are small in comparison to head
• Approximately 200 to 500 g in weight
• 7-10 inches in length
• Droppings are capsule shaped, 3/4" to 1" in length
• Home range of 100 to 170 feet
• Excellent swimmers and climbers
• Young per litter: 8 to 12
• Litters per year: 4 to 7
• Lifespan: 1 year

Unlike the House Mouse, the Norway Rat requires a steady supply of water to survive. They

are typically outdoor animals, preferring underground burrows.

They are extremely intelligent and cautious and may avoid new baits and traps for several days! They also have a multi-layered social order and can be very territorial.

Precense of rats during the day can often mean that infestations are heavy!