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 Norway Rats

The larger of the two species, Norway rats have a stocky body roughly 21 centimeters long, with a tail that is shorter than the length of the head and body combined. These rats measure 30 to 45 centimetres from snout to tip of tail. They have small ears, a blunt snout, and are grey to black in colour. Droppings from a Norway rat are long with rounded ends. 

Black Rats

Black rats, or roof rats, have a smaller body measuring about 17.5 centimeters long. Their tail is longer than the length of head and body combined, and they are more slender than a Norway rat. Black rats measure 33 to 43 centimeters from snout to tip of tail. They have large ears, a pointed snout, and grey to brown coloring. Black rat droppings are long with pointed ends. 

House Mouse and Bushytailed Woodrat

Norway and Black rats are more likely to be confused with one another, as the house mouse is much smaller and rounder than either rat. Native to BC, the Bushytailed Woodrat has a long, bushy tail which sets it apart from the house mouse and rat species.

Norway rats prefer moist semi aquatic environments, as they are strong swimmers. Often they can be found in sewer systems, and ground level in buildings where they can build extensive tunnel systems. Black rats are good climbers, and often nest high in ceilings or attics in buildings. They also can be found in forested environments in milder climates. Both rat species can invade a wide variety of habitats as they are opportunist and adaptable feeders. 

 Ecology 

Norway rats prefer moist semi aquatic environments, as they are strong swimmers. Often they can be found in sewer systems, and ground level in buildings where they can build extensive tunnel systems. Black rats are good climbers, and often nest high in ceilings or attics in buildings. They also can be found in forested environments in milder climates. Both rat species can invade a wide variety of habitats as they are opportunist and adaptable feeders. 

Introduction and Spread

These rats are invasive in BC. The Norway rat is native to China and Mongolia, and the Black rat is native to India. They were introduced through European settler ships coming to Canada in the mid 1800s, and can now be found worldwide anywhere inhabited by humans. The more development and buildings that are created by humans, the more shelter and food resources are available to help the spread and growth of rat populations.

There are several actions you can take to help prevent rats from spreading further and entering your home. Firstly, do not release or transport rats in BC – they are invasive and have negative impacts on human well being. Once you notice signs of rat activity in your house, block off potential points of entry, remove any food or garbage that might attract the rats, and choose a proper control method. Possible entry points for rats might be small cracks and holes (rats only need a quarter sized opening to fit through) either in the foundation, outside walls, or roof. Check for areas where rats might have a food or water source, or where vegetation touches the building and creates a pathway for entry. Choosing a proper control method is best done with the help of a licensed professional who can recommend the best long term solution. There are several ways to control rats, including traps, rodenticide (poison), ultrasonic repellents, and predators. When possible, choose a rodenticide alternative, as poisons can harm pets, wildlife, and humans. Rodenticide is highly toxic, but does not kill the rat immediately and can therefore enter the food chain if it is captured by a predator shortly after ingesting the poison.  

Information and photos are provided by: Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society.  

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