Brown Rat
Scientific Name:
Synonyms:
Description
The Brown rat has coarse, grey-brown fur with a thick scaly tail, which is always shorter than its body, and has small finely haired ears.
Length:
Height:
Weight:
Speed:
Lifespan:
Confusion Species:
Distinguishing Features:
Distribution:
Brown rats are common throughout the UK including inner city areas.
Habitat:
Found in almost every type of habitat from woodlands, riverbanks and farmland to rubbish tips, sewers and urban areas.
Diet:
Behaviour:
Reproduction:
A litter of 11 young may be born to a large female in a nest of warm dry material. The female may have as many as 5 litters per year.
Population:
Predators:
Foxes, owls and cats, in addition to poison laid to kill vermin.
Status:
Often found in large numbers throughout Great Britain.
Did You Know?:
There is a high mortality rate of young rats with as many as 95 per cent perishing.
Additional Notes:
Footprint Description:
Fore foot has 4 digital pads, hind foot has 5. 5 interdigital pads on forefoot, 6 on hind. Hand outline often present where tracks are visible. Hind foot print has long heel pad, which is often visible.
Track Description:
Droppings Description:
Droppings are approx. 2x0.6cm, round in cross section with slightly tapered end. Deposited in regular latrines. Colour may vary depending on diet. Care must be taken if handling Brown Rat droppings due to the risk of Leptospirosis or Weil`s disease.