Rats

What Types of Rats Are Common in San Antonio?

There are two types of rats that are common in San Antonio - the Norway Rat and the Roof Rat. While these rats may be hard to tell apart at first glance, their behavior is a good indicator of their type.

Norway Rats

Norway rats can range in size from six to eight inches, with some growing as large as eleven inches. Their tails are shorter than their bodies, averaging six inches in length. These long rats have brown or grey fur, with a smattering of black hairs throughout. Their undersides are usually lighter in color than the rest of their bodies. Their muzzles are short and blunt, and they have ears that are small and hairless. Norway rats have small eyes and are often called sewer rats because of their choice of habitat.

Roof Rats 

Roof rats are black or dark brown, which is why they are often called black rats. They have pointed muzzles and large ears. Their eyes are large and dark. Roof rats have tails that are about the same size as, or longer than, their bodies. They can average in size from about five to seven inches with a six to eight inch tail. Roof rats are long and thin, which makes them adept at climbing.

How Do I Tell the Difference Between Norway Rats and Roof Rats?

There are several distinct differences between Norway rats and roof rats. The most obvious distinction is their appearance. Roof rats are much darker in color than Norway rats. Norway rats tend to have heavier body types than roof rats. Roof rats' facial features are larger and pointier than the features on Norway rats faces.

Beyond their appearance, these two rat types have widely different habits. Norway rats are excellent swimmers and can easily move through water and sewers. Their heavier bodies prevent them from doing much climbing. Roof rats, as indicated by their name, tend to navigate higher areas, including roofs and trees. Roof rats are excellent climbers.

Are Rats Dangerous?

Don’t let the diminutive size of house mice fool you; they are dangerous nuisances. They carry ticks and fleas and spread bacteria and illness throughout your home through urine and droppings. Their urge to gnaw means they will indiscriminately bite and chew through anything, including your home’s electrical system, storage containers, and pantry goods. While not aggressive, they will bite other beings as a defensive mechanism.