BROWN RAT
(Rattus norvegicus)
Adult weight: The adult Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus) weighs on average approximately 300 grams.
Length: The average length of the head and body is 200-250mm, whereas the tail is shorter in length at
150-200mm.
Fur/colour: The fur is harsh and shaggy in texture. They tend to be brown to black on the upper part of
the head and body with grey or off-white underneath.
Ears/hearing: The Brown Rats ears are thick, opaque in colour with short fine hairs. They possess an
excellent sense of hearing.
and they are colour blind.
Snout/smell and taste: These rats have a blunt snout compared to the Black Rat and they have an
excellent sense of smell and taste.
Droppings: Their droppings are normally found in groups, but are sometimes scattered. The droppings are
an elongated capsule shape measuring about 20mm long.
Habits/habitat: Does burrow. Lives outdoors, indoors and in sewers. Nest in burrows. Can climb though
not agile. Very good swimmer. Somewhat predictable in habit. Avoids unfamiliar objects for some days,
this is called (neophobia), for example bait trays placed directly on rat-runs.
Feeding habits: Omnivorous, more likely to eat meat than Rattus rattus. Consumes up to 30 grams per
day, drinks water or eats food with high water content.
Life cycle: They live for approximatley 9-18 months. As with the Black Rat, during 2-3 months into their
life cycle they are sexually mature to breed and will produce between 8-10 offspring each litter and have
the potential for upto 7 litters per year.
Control Measures: Challenge Services provide comprehensive treatments against Brown Rats along with
free advice and recommendations. Click on images above or call our Service and Enquiry number below for additional information regarding
the control and eradication of this pest.
CHALLENGE 24 HOUR PEST CONTROL SERVICES 0800 612 6965