Norway Rat (Brown Rat)
Rattus norvegicus
A large, heavy-set burrowing rat found around drains, creeks, sheds and under slabs. Less of a climber than the roof rat.
- Tail
- Shorter than body
- Nests
- Low: burrows
- Droppings
- 18–20 mm
- Swims
- Well, including in sewers
Questions about the Norway Rat
How to identify a Norway Rat
Identification
- Heavy body with blunt snout and small ears.
- Tail shorter than head and body.
- Brown-grey fur; droppings about 18–20 mm, capsule-shaped.
Where it lives
- Burrows in soil banks, under slabs and sheds, around compost and in sewers and drains.
Behaviour
- Burrows extensively; enters buildings at ground level.
- Strong swimmer; can travel through sewer pipes.
Why it matters
Burrowing can undermine paths and slabs.
Close association with sewers raises hygiene concerns.
Commonly confused with
More questions about rats
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More about rats
Rats
Introduced rodents that live alongside people, nest in roofs, walls and gardens and gnaw through building materials and wiring. Roof rats are the most common household rat in many Australian cities.
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Sources & further reading
- Australian Museum — insects and spiders — Australian Museum
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