Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), also called the Norway rat or common sewer rat, is one of the most widespread rodent species in the world.
🐀 Key features
- Size: Medium-large rodent (body ~20–25 cm, tail similar length)
- Color: Brownish-gray fur with a lighter underside
- Weight: Typically 200–500 grams
- Teeth: Strong incisors that grow continuously
🌍 Habitat
- Found in cities, farms, sewers, and near human settlements
- Excellent climber, swimmer, and burrower
- Builds nests in hidden, sheltered places (walls, drains, piles of debris)
🍽️ Diet
- Omnivorous: eats grains, fruits, meat scraps, garbage
- Highly adaptable, which is why it thrives near humans
⚠️ Why it matters
- Can spread diseases through droppings and urine
- May contaminate food supplies
- Causes damage by chewing wires, wood, and packaging
🧠 Behavior
- Mostly nocturnal (active at night)
- Lives in groups with social hierarchy
- Very intelligent and cautious with new objects (neophobia)
🛡️ Control basics (if relevant)
- Keep food sealed and garbage covered
- Remove clutter and nesting areas
- Seal holes and entry points in walls/floors
- Use traps or professional pest control if infestation is suspected
