General Info: This rodent breeds rapidly and adapts quickly to changing conditions. They feed on seeds, fruits, insects, dog food, grains, and other human food.
Length: Body- 2 1/2″ – 3 3/4″
Region Found: Throughout the United States
Residential Location: They nest in dark and secluded areas, often build nests in paper products, clutter, insulation, and fabrics. They like to live in and around structures for convenient shelter and access to food.
Random/Interesting Fact: MIce are color blind and females give birth to an average of six babies up to six times a year.
Identification: Mice are usually a dusty gray color with a cream colored belly
AKA: “Black Rat” or “Ship Rat”
General Info: Roof Rats are found mostly in the upper parts of buildings and ships. They are excellent climbers. One female rat can have up to 40 babies in a year.
Length: Body- 6″ – 8″
Region Found: In coastal states as well as in the southern parts of the United States.
Residential Location: They live in colonies above, under, in and around structures.
Random/Interesting Fact: Roof rats forage for food in groups of 10. They return to the same food source time after time.
Identification: They are brown or black with gray, white, or black undersides.
General Info: They can cause damage to properties and structure through gnawing. Norway rats have smaller eyes and ears and shorter tails. They build burrows close to one another. Litter sizes vary greatly. They eat almost anything and can grow to scary sizes. When you read in the news about gigantic rats found near a structure, it’s likely a Norway Rat.
Length: Body- 7″ – 10″
Region Found: Throughout most of the United States
Residential Location: They build burrows close to water and food sources. This could be under or behind appliances, inside walls, or anywhere else.
Random/Interesting Fact: Norway rats came from overseas to America. Many of these rats came to America through ships from Europe in the 1700s and 1800s.
Identification: They are brown with scattered black hair, with gray to white undersides.
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