Norway Rat

What Are Norway Rats?

The Norway rat commonly referred to as the street or sewer rat, is believed to be of Asian origin, arriving in the U.S. on ships from other countries in the 1700s. Today, Norway rats are found throughout the world. Norway rats have fairly poor vision and are colorblind. Despite this, their other senses, including hearing, smell, touch and taste are keen. Although not extremely agile, they are capable of running, climbing, jumping and swimming. Norway rats are known to cause damage to properties and structures through their gnawing.

Scientific Name(s)

• Rattus norvegicus (Norway rat) 

Description

Norway rats, also known as brown rats, are large, burrowing rodents that are typically brown or gray with lighter undersides. They have a robust body, long, scaly tails, and large, sharp teeth. These rats are known for their adaptability and are often found in urban environments, seeking food and shelter in homes, basements, and sewers.

Habitats

• Basements and crawl spaces
• Sewers and storm drains
• Attics and inside walls
• Under appliances and near food storage areas
• Around foundations, particularly in areas with easy access to water or food sources 

Behavior & Characteristics

• Nocturnal and prefer to forage at night
• Live in colonies, with social structures involving dominant and subordinate rats
• Capable of squeezing through small openings and are excellent swimmers
• Often build nests in hidden areas, such as behind walls, inside attics, or under buildings
• Known for gnawing on wood, wires, and food containers to maintain their sharp teeth 

Health Risks

• Can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and leptospirosis
• Spread diseases through droppings, urine, and bites
• Contaminate food and water supplies with feces and urine
• Can trigger allergies and asthma due to their dander and droppings
  

Signs of Infestation

• Droppings, typically large and dark, in areas where rats frequent
• Gnaw marks on food packaging, furniture, or electrical wires
• Scratching sounds, especially at night, coming from inside walls or ceilings
• Burrows and nests made of shredded materials, often found near food sources
• Visible tracks or footprints in dusty areas
  

Prevention Tips

• Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations to prevent rat entry
• Remove food sources by storing food in airtight containers and disposing of trash regularly
• Keep areas around your home clear of clutter and debris that could provide shelter for rats
• Trim tree branches and shrubbery near the house to prevent easy access to rooftops or upper floors
• Fix any leaks or standing water around the house to eliminate water sources for rats
  

Treatment Options

• Trapping with snap traps, glue boards, or live traps
• Rodenticides and baiting systems, applied by professional pest control services
• Sealing entry points to prevent re-entry
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to monitor and control the infestation effectively

For expert pest control in Tucson, AZ, and surrounding areas, visit our Pest Control Service page or contact our team today to eliminate Norway rats and prevent future infestations.

Interesting Facts

• Norway rats are excellent swimmers and can tread water for up to three days
• A single female Norway rat can produce up to 12 litters per year, with each litter containing up to 14 pups
• These rats are highly intelligent and can remember complex pathways to food sources and shelters
• They can gnaw through wood, plastic, and even soft metals to access food and shelter 

FAQs

Q1: Why do I have Norway rats in my home?
Norway rats are attracted to food, water, and shelter. Common causes of an infestation include open entry points around doors or windows, easy access to garbage, and unsealed food sources inside your home. If you’re noticing signs of rats, it’s important to address the issue quickly to prevent further damage and contamination.

Q2: Are Norway rats dangerous?
Yes. Norway rats can transmit harmful diseases like Salmonella, E. coli, and leptospirosis. They can also trigger allergies and asthma, especially in sensitive individuals, and cause significant property damage through their gnawing and nesting behaviors.

Q3: How quickly can Norway rats multiply?
Very quickly. A single female Norway rat can give birth to up to 12 litters a year, with each litter containing 6 to 12 pups. This rapid reproduction rate can lead to large infestations if left untreated.