Tuesday, 14 February 2012
Brown Rat
Scientific Name:
Rattus norvegicus
Weight:
Up to 400g
Lifespan:
Up to 18 months 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.
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.
Predators
Foxes, owls and cats, in addition to poison laid to kill vermin.
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.
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.
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.
Footprint Size
hind foot - 3.3x2.8cm, fore foot - 1.8x2.5cm. Stride around 14-15cm.
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.