Norway Rats vs Roof Rats: What are the Differences?

Last Modified on October 30, 2024 by Zachary Smith

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If you have rats on your property, you need to determine their species before you can start to get rid of them.

For more than 20 years, Smith’s Pest Management has been offering rat control services to Bay Area customers.

We’ve compiled our best tips for recognizing (and controlling) roof rats and Norway rats into this blog.

roof vs norway rats

What Are Roof Rats and Norway Rats?

Roof rats, scientifically known as Rattus rattus, are known for their slender bodies and long tails, which are usually longer than their bodies.

Norway rats, also known as brown rats or sewer rats, are large rodents with a heavier build and shorter tails than roof rats.

This dietary flexibility makes them successful survivors and significant pests in rural and urban settings, especially in areas where food waste is prevalent.

Roof Rats Norway Rats
Appearance
  • Bodies that are 6-8” in length, with an additional 7-10” of tail.
  • Fur ranges from brownish-black to solid black, and its undersides are usually lighter, appearing gray or white.

 

  • Adult Norway rats typically measure about 7-9.5” with tails that are about 6-8” long.
  • Tend to be brown or gray and usually have lighter gray or white underbellies.
  • Their fur is coarse, and their muzzles are blunt, which can make them look less sleek than roof rats.

 

Diet
  • Primarily plant-based eaters.
  • They will also eat insects and small animals.
  • They love fruits, grains, and other plant materials.
  • They favor fruits, grains, and vegetables.
  • They are opportunistic eaters that will also consume meat and food scraps
Behavior
  • Nocturnal.
  • They are known for their remarkable agility and climbing prowess, allowing them to navigate high spaces easily.
  • Ground-dwelling and proficient swimmers and climbers.
  • Norway rats, like roof rats, are primarily nocturnal.
Habitat
  • Primarily arboreal – they prefer to live above ground in elevated areas like attics, roofs, and trees.
  • Prefer ground-level environments.
  • Typically reside in basements, fields, and under structures.
  • Can sometimes be found in attics or elevated spaces that offer easy access.

How to Tell if You Have Roof Rats or Norway Rats

Identifying whether you have roof or Norway rats can help you choose the most effective control methods.

Signs of Roof Rats

Sign Description
Droppings Small, spindle-shaped droppings with pointed ends, about half an inch long.
Gnaw Marks Roof rats leave behind smaller teeth marks since they have sharper, finer incisors.
Tracks and Runways Roof rats prefer elevated routes; you might find oily streaks and smudge marks along rafters, branches, and on other above-ground-level surfaces.
Nests Roof rat nests are usually found in high places, these nests are made from materials such as shredded paper or twigs and are typically located in attics, trees, or above ground.
Damage Damage is often higher up, such as chewed wires or attic insulation.

Signs of Norway Rats

Sign Description
Droppings Large, capsule-shaped droppings with blunt ends, approximately three-quarters of an inch long.
Gnaw Marks Larger, rougher gnaw marks indicative of their stronger bite and more prominent teeth.
Tracks and Runways More likely to travel at ground level, leaving parallel footprints and tail drag marks in dusty or muddy areas.
Nests Nest in underground burrows or secluded ground-level areas, using materials like soil, insulation, and soft debris.
Damage Known for ground-level damage, including burrow entrance holes around foundations and chewed materials in basements or lower structures.

Roof Rat Control Tips

roof rat

  • Seal Entry Points: Conduct a thorough inspection of your home to identify and seal any holes or cracks that may serve as entry points for roof rats. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and rooftops, and seal any crack or gap that’s the size of your thumb or larger.
  • Remove Outdoor Food Sources: To minimize attractants, securely cover trash bins, store pet food indoors, and promptly clean up fallen fruit or nuts from trees.
  • Trim Trees and Vegetation: Keep trees, shrubs, and other vegetation well-trimmed, especially if they’re near the house. This prevents rats from using overhanging branches as pathways onto roofs and into attics.
  • Eliminate Nesting Sites: Reduce clutter in your yard, garage, and attic to make it harder for roof rats to find places to nest.
  • Set Traps and Baits: Place traps or bait stations strategically along suspected rat pathways. Follow instructions carefully to ensure effective and safe usage, especially in homes with pets or children.
  • Consult Professional Pest Control Services: If roof rat problems persist despite preventive measures, enlist the expertise of professional pest control services to assess the situation and employ targeted treatments.

Norway Rat Control Tips

norway rat

  • Seal Entry Points: Like roof rats, keep Norway Rats away by sealing all potential entry points, especially in basements and ground-level areas. Use steel wool and caulk to block holes and cracks effectively. Again – patch anything the size of your thumb or larger.
  • Maintain a Clean Environment: Regularly clean indoor and outdoor areas to eliminate food and water sources that may attract Norway rats. Store food in airtight containers and clean up spills or crumbs promptly. Do not leave garbage bags outside for extended periods, and schedule regular waste pickups.
  • Manage Landscaping: Make sure there’s minimal clutter around your property, since Norway rats nest in overgrown vegetation and piles of debris. Keep grass short and remove any unnecessary outdoor clutter.
  • Inspect for Water Leaks: Inspect your home for leaks, particularly in basements and crawl spaces, as Norway rats are drawn to sources of water. Repair any leaks immediately to eliminate these attractions.
  • Seek Professional Assistance: If Norway rat issues continue despite your control efforts, consider contacting professional pest control services for a thorough assessment and a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your situation.

When to Call a Pest Control Professional

Homeowners should consider calling a pest control professional if they notice any of the following signs:

  • Increased droppings or rat signs. If you notice an increasing number of droppings, especially in concentrated amounts around food sources or near burrows.
  • Strange noises. If you hear persistent scratching or rustling sounds within walls or ceilings, you may have a large infestation that requires professional attention.
  • Signs of damage. Discovering gnawed wires, furniture, or insulation may pose safety risks, such as electrical fires or structural damage, so it’s wise to hire a pro to help you stop this damage in its tracks.

For more information on how to get rid of rats, check out our comprehensive blog on the topic.

Don’t Settle for Living With Rats – Smith’s Pest Management Can Help!

Handling a rat infestation can be stressful, but don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Here at Smith’s Pest Management, we’ve been providing customized rat control solutions for Bay Area customers for over 20 years, and we can help you reclaim your property.

Call us today at (408) 871-6988 to learn more about our services and how our team can help you!

FAQs

Do rats spread diseases?

Yes, rats spread many diseases that can affect humans and pets.

They can transmit diseases directly through their urine, droppings, and bites, and indirectly through ticks, mites, or fleas that have fed on an infected rat.

Some diseases associated with rats include leptospirosis, hantavirus, and salmonella.

How can I prevent rat infestations?

Preventing rat infestations involves a combination of sanitation, exclusion, and proper maintenance.

  • Keep your property clean and free of clutter where rats might hide.
  • Ensure all food is stored in airtight containers, and promptly clean up spills and crumbs.
  • Seal any holes or cracks in the walls, foundation, and around doors and windows to block entry points.
  • Regularly inspect your home for leaks and standing water, which can attract rats.
  • Trimming vegetation and keeping the yard tidy can also help deter these pests.

Why do I have rats in my home?

Rats are attracted to environments with easy access to the resources they need, namely food, water, and shelter.

If these resources are available, it increases the likelihood of a rat infestation.

Homes with lots of food waste, pet food that’s left out overnight, or unsecured garbage pretty much invite rodents in.

Additionally, properties with structural openings or outdoor clutter, such as debris and overgrown vegetation, provide ideal nesting sites for rats seeking refuge.

zach smith

Author Bio: Zach Smith

Landscape Pro Turned Gopher Pro: Owner, Zach Smith, graduate of Cal Poly’s Horticulture program worked nine years as a landscape professional- dealing with gophers, moles, and ground squirrels and was quickly recruited by other local gardeners. Fast forward to the past 15+ years, where Zach and his team trap and remove burrowing pests from residential, municipal and commercial properties throughout the San Francisco Bay area, from Marin to Monterey. Learn more about Zach and his team here.

team photo cropped