Norway rats have coarse, brownish-gray fur with light to hairless underbellies. They possess hairless tails that are shorter than their bodies, blunt noses, and robust bodies.
These rodents can grow to lengths of 13 to 18 inches and weigh up to 18 ounces.
Norway rats are drawn to homes that offer easy access to food, water, and shelter. These pests will take advantage of:
When these conditions are present, Norway rats are more likely to view your home as a safe and resource-rich environment.
Norway rats are excellent burrowers and often gain access by digging under foundations or squeezing through cracks in basements, crawl spaces, or around utility lines. They can also enter through damaged vents, broken door sweeps, or gaps around windows and garage doors. These rats are strong and persistent, capable of gnawing through wood, plastic, and even soft metals to create or widen entry points.
Once inside, Norway rats typically nest in low, hidden, and undisturbed areas that are close to food and water sources. Common nesting sites include basements, crawl spaces, wall voids, storage rooms, and behind or beneath appliances. They may also burrow into insulation, piles of clutter, or underneath floorboards. These rats prefer areas that are dark, quiet, and rarely accessed.
Yes, Norway rats can transmit a variety of diseases, including leptospirosis, salmonella, hantavirus, and rat-bite fever, through their droppings, urine, saliva, or bites. They often carry parasites such as fleas, mites, and ticks, which can spread additional illnesses.
Norway rats often dig extensive tunnels beneath buildings, foundations, and sidewalks. Over time, this burrowing can compromise the structural integrity of a home, leading to uneven flooring, cracks in the foundation, or even collapsed sections of pavement. One of the more dangerous forms of damage caused by Norway rats involves electrical systems. These rodents frequently chew on wires, which not only damages appliances and systems but also increases the risk of electrical shorts and fires.
While it is possible to attempt removing Norway rats on your own, it can be challenging and often ineffective without proper knowledge and tools. These rodents are highly adaptable, reproduce quickly, and tend to nest in multiple areas, making complete eradication difficult. DIY methods like traps or bait may temporarily reduce their numbers but often fail to address the root of the problem, such as sealing entry points and removing food sources. Improper use of traps or poisons can also pose risks to pets and children.
If you need help getting rid of Norway rats or other rodents, contact Harbor Pest Control. Since 1948, our locally owned and family-operated pest control company has been helping San Diego residents eliminate and prevent rodent infestations. You can rely on our team to handle your Norway rat problem!
Preventing Norway rats from infesting your home involves a combination of good sanitation, maintenance, and exclusion practices.
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San Diego, CA
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San Diego, CA
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