The Rat

Brown Rat, Common Rat, Norway Rat, Sewer Rat - Rattus Norvegicus

History

This species originated from Asia and was first sighted at the beginning of the 18th century. Although the species is known by many names, historically the name "Norway Rat" was very common. They were referred to as the Norway rat as it was originally thought to have traveled from Norway on timber ships.

Habits

This sewer rat must consume food on a daily basis but very moist food can be a good substitute. Like the Black Rat they are considered to be omnivorous, but fruit, vegetables and cereals also provide the rat with a good food source. As well as drinking substantial amounts of water daily the Brown Rat must also consume one tenth of its body weight.

There are no specific areas in which to find the Brown Rat as they explore all locations freely. Although unlike the Black Rat the Brown Rat has a fear of new objects in its habitat, which should be taken into account when baiting. A check after the initial treatment will tell you if the rats have accepted the bait.

Features

The common Brown Rat has varying colours but usually appear brown to grey on their backs with a lighter underside. Unlike the Black Rat the tail is shorter than the head and body. The tail appears to be darker above and lighter towards the tip. Another very noticeable feature about this certain rat is its very small ears and its small eyes in comparison to the Black Rat.

Biology

These rats can produce between 3-6 litters per year. The litters are usually between 8-10cm in length. These litters reach maturity in approximately 2-3 months and at this point are fully mobile. The Brown Rat has an average life span of 12 months.

Black Rat, Ship Rat - Rattus Rattus

This rodent originates from south east Asia, China and India. It has been in the uk the longest of all rodents dating back to the third century. This rodent made its journey here on the ships from the crusaders and any vessels carrying cargos of fabric and food. These vessels provided the Black Rat with a ideal food and harbourage.

Habits

Like the common Brown Rat the Black Rat must drink water on a daily basis but moist food will also sustain them. They are considered to be a omnivorous species but will still eat foods such as fruit and vegetables.

The Black Rat is considered to be a very good climber and with this ability it is usually found in high up places indoors. although this certain species of rat is not as common these days it is still found in port areas.

Features

The Black Rat is black to brown in colour with the tail been of a lighter shade. The mail feature about this rat is the tail, which is longer than the head and body. Large eyes and ears are also very noticeable.

Biology

The females produce between 4-6 litters per year which are about 4-8cm in length. Full adult maturity occurs in 2-3 months with a average lifespan of roughly 12 months.

Rodent control methods

Prior to carrying out any treatments against rats or mice a full survey of the property or site must be undertaken. The survey consists of, locating the entry points, feeding areas and measuring the scale of the infestation. Adjoining areas are also included in the survey.

With the background knowledge and behaviour of these rodents identified the survey includes details of holes, droppings, damage and nests.

Bating techniques

After the survey has been completed a baiting programme is introduced. The main concern of the pest controller is laying rodenticides without endangering non-target animals or humans. If at all possible any baits laid must be out of sight and non-accessible. If the baits have to be out in the open tamper resistant bait stations must be used.

Examples of baiting locations

Food storage and preparation areas such as kitchens and pantries are favoured by rats and mice. Areas of warmth such as bathrooms and airing cupboards also provide ideal harbourage. In all of these areas safeguarding baits are essential. Tamper resistant bait stations should be used in all of these locations. These bait stations should be placed under or behind kitchen fittings and pipe work, kitchen appliances such as cookers and fridges also need bait stations placing behind or underneath them.

Areas of minimal accessibility such as lofts means bait trays can be used but if there is any doubt on any location a tamper resistant bait station should be used.

Rodents feed at many different times and places, using a large number of bait points will increase success.