Norway Rat
Rattus norvegicus
Identification
- average length is 16 inches
- gray to reddish brown; typically grayish brown
Nesting Habits
- nest in burrows in the ground
- like low-growing vegetation, rock piles, etc.
- very common under concrete slabs
Diet
- highly varied: any food product, trash, carrion, etc.
Significance
- can transmit disease; human health concern
- ruin stored food products
- nuisance in and around buildings
IPM Recommendations
- Install tight-fitting door sweeps.
- Seal exterior cracks, crevices and areas around pipes and electrical that enter buildings through walls.
- Reduce clutter indoors and outdoors.
- Remove weeds and low-growing ornamentals/covers.
- Move dumpsters at least 50 feet from buildings.
- Keep all exterior doors closed.
- Store food in pest-proof containers.
- Use snap-traps placed with triggers toward the baseboards, especially in dark corners and behind objects, in drop ceilings, and areas with droppings, etc.
- Use multiple baits: peanut butter, meat, candy, etc.
- When trapping, put traps out with bait, but do not set the triggers. Desensitize the rats for a week before setting the triggers.
- Train kitchen and custodial staff to clean thoroughly.