Introduction:
In cities, around the world rats are a nuisance, in the United Kingdom where the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) and black rat (Rattus rattus) are the most frequently encountered species. Although they have some behaviors and living environments there are characteristics that set them apart.
Types Of Rats:
Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus):
Appearance:
Size:
- Adult brown rats can grow up to 20 cm (8 inches) in body length, not including their tail.
- Their tails typically measure around 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in length.
- Brown rats typically weigh anywhere, from 140 to 500 grams, with their weight influenced by factors, like age, gender and their surroundings.
Habitat:
Behavior:
- Primarily nocturnal, brown rats are most active during the night, although they may also be active during the day in areas with less human activity.
- They eat a variety of foods, like grains, fruits, vegetables, insects and small animals since they are omnivorous.
- Brown rats are really good, at climbing and swimming. They can climb walls, trees and swim across water to find food and a place to live.
Black Rat (Rattus rattus):
Appearance:
Black rats have sleek, slender bodies covered in soft fur, which is typically black or dark gray. However, their fur coloration can vary depending on factors such as geographic location and individual genetics. They have pointed noses and large, prominent ears that are proportionally larger compared to their body size. Unlike brown rats, black rats have longer tails that are usually longer than their body length. Their tails are also more tapered and scaly in appearance.
Size:
- Adult black rats are smaller compared to brown rats, with body lengths averaging around 16 cm (6 inches).
- Their tails can measure approximately 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) in length, making them longer than their bodies.
- Black rats typically weigh between 75-230 grams, with females generally smaller than males.
Habitat:
Black rats are commonly associated with warmer climates and are often found in coastal regions, ports, and urban areas with dense human populations. They tend to favor locations and are adept climbers often setting up nests in attics, rooftops, trees and other elevated structures. Unlike brown rats, black rats are less likely to burrow extensively and may inhabit existing structures or vegetation for shelter.
- Similar to brown rats, black rats are primarily nocturnal, although they may also be active during the day, especially in areas with less human disturbance.
- They move with nimbleness effortlessly navigating surfaces, like walls and trees.
- Black rats have a diet consuming grains, fruits, seeds, insects and small vertebrates, as part of their nature. Their diet may vary depending on seasonal availability and local resources.
Conclusion:
In summary although brown rats and black rats are both present, across the UK and have some similarities there are variations in their looks, size, preferred habitats and behaviors that can help distinguish them. Recognizing these differences is important, for implementing pest control methods. To deal with these rodents visit this Link WHEELIO Sticky Glue Pads For Mouse / Rats.
