Norway Rats

What do Norway rats look like? 

Norway rats are plump and robust rodents, measuring 7 to 9 inches long, with tails shorter than their bodies. Norway rats are not strong climbers, unlike roof rats, so they don’t rely on long tails for balance. These ground-burrowing rodents typically have brown coats with white or gray underbellies, long white feet, and thick tails. Their preference for low-lying areas and their physical characteristics make them well-suited to ground-level life.

Where do Norway rats live?

Norway rats prefer to stay close to the ground. When they enter homes and structures, common hiding and nesting places include:

• Crawl spaces
• Ground-level storage rooms
• Garages
• Wall voids
• Utility rooms

Although not typical, Norway rats will move to higher locations. 

What do Norway rats eat?

Norway rats have an extensive diet. Here are a few things they’re known to eat:

• Seeds
• Nuts
• Grains
• Insects
• Small animals
• Carrion
• Food sources in garbage
• Human and pet food
• Fecal matter

Norway rats prefer foods high in carbohydrates, which gives them the energy they need to stay active. 

 Are Norway rats dangerous?

Yes. Norway rats can get feisty and bite when threatened. They are more aggressive than mice and roof rats. However, the primary ways they impact human health are the same as those of other rodents.

• They spread germs from trash and sewers to food storage, food-prep surfaces, and stored foods.
• They leave excrement and urine as they explore indoor spaces.
• They carry ticks and fleas.
• They damage structures and belongings.

In most cases, Norway rats don’t mean to cause harm. They’re just trying to survive.

How do Norway rats enter homes and structures?

These rats will likely enter a structure through entry points near the ground. Here are a few examples to consider:

• They may gnaw and claw on gaps around pipes or wires to enter through foundation walls.
• They may gnaw on small wood holes to make them large enough for entry.
• They may create holes in weatherproofing, sweeps, or frames around exterior doors.
• They may gnaw on a vent cover, enter a vent, and gnaw on an interior hose to gain entry.
• They may squeeze through a small opening in a cellar door.

What attracts Norway rats?

These animals are attracted to properties that provide food, water, and protected nest areas. If your property has any of the following, you may attract Norway rats:

• Junk piles and other yard debris
• Pet waste 
• Unprotected voids underneath the deck or stairs
• Accessible crawl space
• Dense vegetation near your exterior walls
• An uncovered trash receptacle
• Leaves, twigs, and other organic matter
• Nuts, seeds, or fruit on the ground
• Puddles formed by a clogged gutter or damaged splash block

What are the signs of a Norway rat problem?

Norway rats are the most noticeable of the three common rodents you may find in your yard. You may see them scurrying around in your yard at dusk or dawn. If you do not see them, here are a few ways to detect a problem:

• Look for black rat droppings near your exterior. 
• Look for black grease marks around gaps or along baseboards.
• Look for rat activity in the secluded locations mentioned above.
• Listen for bumping or scraping at night.
• Check for holes in dog or cat food packaging.

Rats are sneaky animals and are often difficult to track or detect. Keep this in mind.

What should I do if I have Norway rats?

For help eliminating Norway rats in Metro Atlanta, contact got bugs? Termite & Pest Solutions at the first sign of a problem. Our local pest control team offers effective pest control services for rodents and insects. 

How can I prevent a Norway rat infestation?

• Seal entry points
• Install door sweeps
• Eliminate food sources
• Store trash properly
• Fix moisture issues
• Haul away leaves, tree branches, and other organic matter
• Remove lumber piles, spare tires, discarded tarps, and other yard debris