Need pest help? Save $50 on your first recurring service today with code GET50

Different Types of Rat Species

Rats are some of the most common and formidable pests in the world — damaging and contaminating food, structures and human health. Although people don't usually see the actual rats, signs of their presence are relatively easy to identify. Two primary species of rats inhabit North American homes: the roof rat and the Norway rat.

Norway rats, sometimes called brown or sewer rats, are identifiable by their stocky, gray-brown bodies. Their tails are shorter than their body length and their ears and eyes are small relative to their body. Norway rats are larger than most other rat species. They burrow in gardens and fields, as well as beneath building foundations, trash or woodpiles. Norway rats line their nests with fibrous materials, such as shredded paper and cloth. These rats tend to inhabit the lower levels of buildings.

Roof rats, sometimes called black rats, are superb climbers that tend to nest above ground. In the wild, roof rats inhabit shrubs, trees and dense vegetation. In domestic environments, they seek out secure, elevated places such as attics, walls, sheetrock ceilings and cabinets. They may enter homes through trees close to windows or eaves. As opposed to the Norway rat, roof rats tend to limit their geographical range to warmer climates often along the coast.

Rats are generally larger than mice. While young rats can sometimes be mistaken for mice, they can be distinguished by their disproportionately long feet and oversized head. Both rodents are capable of chewing through hard, wooden surfaces, but rat teeth marks are much larger than those of mice.

Rat Behavior

Rat Borne Diseases

Rat Diet

Rat Fleas

Rat Habitat

Rat Holes

Rat Infestation

Rat or Muskrat + Differences

Rat Sense of Smell

Rat Tracks

What Does A Rat Look Like?

Enemies and Predators of Rats

Rat Bites

Resources

Dig Deeper on Rats

2023’s Most Rat-Infested Cities in America

Where do rats live?

Q

Where do rats live?

How do I get a rat out of my car?

Q

There is a rat in my car. How do I get it out?

What attracts rats to your house?

Q

What attracts rats to your house?

What are the Signs of Rat Infestations?

Enemies and Predators of Rats

What Does a Rat Look Like?

Rat Sense of Smell

Rat Tracks

What to Do When You Find a Dead Rat

Connect with Us

Our customer care team is available for you 24 hours a day.

877-819-5061

Find a Branch

Our local Pros are the pest experts in your area.

Get a Personalized Quote

We will help you find the right treatment plan for your home.

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

© 2024 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers

Your Branch  

Call Now