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.
Norway Rat Identification
Color:Brown with scattered black hairs; gray to white underside
Size:7-9 ½ inches long
Legs:4
Antennae:No
Shape:Long, heavily bodied; blunt muzzle
Region:Found throughout U.S.
What Do Norway Rats Look Like?
Norway rats have bristly brown fur, with black hairs dispersed throughout their coat. Their underside tends to be lighter, with gray to off-white coloring and even yellow tones. Norway rats have small eyes and ears, and their tails are shorter than the length of their head and body coupled together. Information Credit: pestworld.org