Norway Rats

What do Norway rats look like?

There are two common types of rats in Texas: Norway rats and roof rats. Norway rats are larger and stockier than roof rats. They measure between 7 and 9 ½ inches long and have thick tails that add another 6 to 8 inches to their length. While they have some black hairs, they are predominantly covered in brown fur, which is why Norway rats are often called brown rats.

What do Norway rats eat?

A better question is, “What don’t Norway rats eat?” These critters are highly adaptable to any environment and will scavenge unpleasant food sources if needed. In urban areas, these rats often live in sewers and feed on garbage and the fecal matter of domesticated dogs, but their preference is to eat grains, nuts, and seeds. As they scavenge for food, they will eat fish, other meats, and fruits and vegetables.

How do Norway rats get inside?

These animals burrow in the ground and often create homes in the soft soil underneath tree root systems. Since they tunnel in the ground and prefer to stay near the ground, they favor entry points on the first floor of homes.

• They squeeze through gaps between foundations and wood framing.
• They squeeze and gnaw their way through window frames.
• They gnaw, squeeze, and wiggle into gaps around pipes and cables, often clawing and gnawing concrete to make small holes larger.
• They squeeze under garage door seals and hide in secluded garage storage locations.

A full-grown Norway rat can squeeze through a gap about the width of a quarter. Also, they’re equipped with strong teeth and claws to make small holes larger. It is critical to do something about rats when you first notice activity.

Where do Norway rats nest?

Norway rats create nests below or above ground. Their preference is to tunnel underneath ground cover, including junk piles. They also live inside the cavities of objects that rest on the ground. Here are a few common places you may find Norway rats outdoors and indoors:

• In dense vegetation near your home
• In the ground underneath yard clutter or junk piles
• In the ground under a shed, log, or brush pile
• In the crawl space underneath your home
• In the space underneath your deck
• In a storage room or shed
• In the wall void of your pantry or kitchen

While prone to staying near the ground, these rats are versatile and can sometimes get into attic spaces.

Are Norway rats dangerous?

Unfortunately, these rats are a hazard when they enter Texas homes and businesses.

• They pick up germs and spread them through contact with their fur.
• They pick up ticks and fleas and deposit them indoors.
• They contaminate areas with their fecal matter and urine.
• They chew on wires and are considered a fire hazard.

What are the signs of a Norway rat infestation?

There are a few signs you can look for to determine whether Norway rats have entered your home.

• Droppings: These rodents leave small, blunt-ended, dark-colored fecal matter. In general, Norway droppings are slightly larger than grains of rice.
• Burrow holes: These rodents are likely to create entry holes for you to find. Look for them around trees, junk piles, and ground clutter.
• Gnaw marks: These rodents gnaw and scrape on concrete as they get inside. Look for these around your exterior utilities.
• Black marks: Norway rats typically have greasy fur and will leave black marks around entry points and along baseboards as they explore interior spaces.
• Noises: You may hear these rodents as they climb around inside wall voids.

How can I tell the difference between Norway rats and roof rats?

There are several differences in visual appearance. 

• Norway rats are brown. Roof rats are black.
• Norway rats are larger than roof rats.
• Norway rats have shorter tails than roof rats. Roof rats need longer tails for balance.

Both of these rodents are nocturnal by nature. Sightings of either are uncommon.

How do I get rid of Norway rats?

If you suspect Norway rats have infested your property, call Marathon Pest Control right away. Our pest control specialists will identify the rodent species and then develop and implement a rodent control plan to eliminate these pests. 

How can I keep Norway rats away?

There are many ways to prevent a Norway rat infestation. These tips can be applied outdoors or indoors.

• Seal gaps around plumbing.
• Replace weatherstripping and/or door sweeps.
• Replace damaged vent covers.
• Apply wire mesh in areas where rodents are gnawing on building materials or gaps.
• Keep trash receptacles covered.
• Clean trash receptacles if they start to have an odor.
• Remove trash from your property routinely.
• Remove bird feeders.
• Pick up nuts and fruit that fall to the ground.
• Apply fencing material to keep rodents out of your garden and voids underneath structures.