Norway rats are large, typically 7 to 9.5 inches long, with a blunt nose, small ears, and a tail shorter than their body. They are primarily nocturnal and are skilled burrowers, often nesting in basements, under decks, and even in sewer systems. Their presence is usually identified by gnaw marks, droppings, greasy rub marks on walls, and the sounds of scurrying or scratching within walls.

Common signs of a Norway rat infestation include:

• Gnaw marks on wood, plastic, or even electrical wiring
• Rat droppings near food sources or entry points
• Burrows around your foundation, garden, or shed
• Grease marks along baseboards or walls
• Scratching or squeaking sounds within walls or floors

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Norway rats are typically 7 to 9.5 inches long, with an additional 6 to 8 inches of tail length, making them one of the largest species of rats. Adults can weigh between 12 to 16 ounces.
• Appearance: They have coarse, brown fur with scattered black hairs and a pale gray or off-white underside. Norway rats have a blunt nose, small ears, and a thick body. Their tail is shorter than their body, distinguishing them from other rat species.
• Lifespan: In the wild, Norway rats typically live for 1 to 2 years, but they can reproduce quickly, with females giving birth to up to 12 pups per litter.

Habits and Behavior:

• Habitat: Norway rats prefer to live in burrows, which they dig in the ground around buildings, gardens, and sheds. They are often found in basements, sewers, and near food storage areas.
• Diet: Norway rats are omnivores and will eat almost anything, although they prefer grains, fruits, meats, and garbage. In urban areas, they are often found scavenging through trash or raiding kitchens and pantries.
• Activity: Norway rats are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They are excellent swimmers and can climb short distances, making them adept at entering homes and businesses through sewers, pipes, or foundation cracks.
• Breeding: Norway rats are prolific breeders, with females capable of producing several litters a year, each containing up to 12 young. This rapid reproduction makes it crucial to address infestations quickly before they grow out of control.

Why They Are a Threat:

Norway rats are dangerous due to their tendency to chew through wood, wires, and insulation, potentially causing costly structural damage and even electrical fires. They are also vectors for diseases, including leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonella, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with their droppings, urine, or saliva.