Brown rats, also called Norway rats, belong to the mouse family, and can grow up to 40cm long. They are characterised by their short tails and large bodies, with males being generally more significant than females. These rodents are well adapted to urban environments, with an average weight ranging from 200 grams to over 450 grams.
The Norway rats can be identified by their short, dense fur that covers entire body except for their nose, tail, and ears. While their hair can range from grey to brown, they typically have lighter colouring on their underside.
Brown rats are known for their polygamous behaviour, where both male and female rats’ mate with multiple partners within a group. Male rats reach sexual maturity in three months, while females reach maturity in four months. These pests are not restricted to a particular breeding season, but their activities increase during summer.
Female rats can give birth to as many as seven litters in a year, with a gestation period of 22 to 24 days. After giving birth, they go into oestrus again in just 18 hours. They mate with multiple competing males up to 500 times during this time. The young rats nurse for three to four weeks before leaving the nest.
Norway rats are foragers and can survive on various foods, including discarded human food, crops from fields, plants, lizards, chicks, and other rodents.
They typically live under bushes and in sewers and construct deep burrow systems where they make nests from shredded materials. Due to their close association with humans, they are commonly found in coastal urban areas.
Brown rats can quickly become a nuisance on your property. Identifying the signs of an infestation is essential to act before the problem worsens.
Norway rats can reproduce quickly, so early detection and prevention are crucial to keep them away from your property. To prevent them from entering your home, it’s essential to seal any holes or entry points, fix leaky pipes to reduce water availability, store food in airtight containers, and maintain cleanliness.
If you suspect Norway rats have invaded your property, don’t hesitate to contact Tom’s Pest Control Adelaide. Our pest control experts have the necessary experience to remove these rats from residential and commercial properties. No matter the size of your property, we can eliminate the infestation using safe products and modern techniques.
If you are dealing with a pest infestation, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to discuss your needs and help in rodent control . Contact us today to get started.
Effective methods for controlling Norway rat populations include trapping, baiting, and exclusion techniques. Trapping can be done using snap traps or live traps, while baiting involves placing poison bait in strategic locations.
Exclusion methods involve sealing entry points to prevent rats from entering buildings or structures. It is essential to use caution when dealing with rat infestations and to follow all safety guidelines and local regulations.
Professional Norway rat control services, use safe methods and products for pets and children when used as directed.
However, it is crucial to follow the technician’s instructions and take any necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your loved ones and pets.
Norway rats can cause significant damage to your property, as they are known to chew on wires, insulation, and other materials.
They can also spread diseases and contaminate food sources, posing a health risk to humans and pets.
Tom’s Pest Control Adelaide believe in effective communication as a key aspect of maintaining high-service levels. Please feel free to contact us by phone or online if you have any queries or problems.
