Norway Rats

Norway rat standing upright with brown, coarse fur and a short tail on a white background.

IDENTIFYING NORWAY RATS

Norway rats are strong, ground-dwelling rodents that tunnel beneath foundations, sheds, and crawl spaces. Their burrowing and constant gnawing can cause significant structural damage before homeowners notice them.

Size/Color: 13–18 inches long including tail; brown or gray with a lighter belly.

Habits: Norway rats live low to the ground, burrowing under structures and staying on first floors when indoors. They eat garbage, food waste, grains, and pet food.

Problem: Their burrowing can undermine foundations, and their gnawing can damage wiring, food storage, and structural materials.

Frequently Asked Questions About Norway Rats