Creature Feature

Norway Rat

The Norway rat is present across the United States and is the dominant pest rat species in most states. It is larger and more aggressive than the roof rat, which it displaces in temperate regions. Norway rats are adaptable to both rural and urban environments. They naturally swim well and hunt for prey animals, especially birds. As human population density increases in cities, so does the number of Norway rats since easier access to food creates smaller territories.

Norway rats prefer to nest in ground burrows. Although they can climb well, they tend to keep to the ground or the lower levels of buildings while searching for food. Because the food provided by people can be predictable, they’ll follow the same route between an established food source and their burrow until something changes. These routes can be

identified by their droppings, rub marks, gnawing or worn

trails through grass.

It’s important to place management efforts within 10 feet of the routes being used repeatedly by rats. Norway rats are not likely to leave routes that lead to an established food source to investigate other sources of food. Traps and stations set on or close to trails have a better chance of success. Baiting snap traps without setting them (prebaiting) can acclimate rats to the traps as well as help determine food preference if several options are provided.

Products to Use

Call (800) 888-4897 to order or visit the Online Store.

T-Rex Rat Snap Trap

T-Rex Rat Snap Trap

  • Aggressive, interlocking teeth for unmatched holding power
  • Perfect combination of trigger sensitivity and trap velocity
  • Removable bait cup allows the trap to be serviced without being set
48R Series Rat Glue Tray

48R Series Rat Glue Tray

  • The only low-temperature rat glue tray available
  • Effective in temperatures as low as 0? Fahrenheit
  • Perfect for garages, basements and walk-in refrigerators
EZ Secured Station

EZ Secured Station

  • Concrete block absorbs the surrounding odors creating a familiar smell for the rodent
  • External block creates friction with the ground to help it stay in place
  • No unnecessary voids. Prevents unwanted water from pooling

Want to learn more?

Check out our Rodent Biology, Behavior and Management ProTraining course:

Rodent Biology, Behavior and Management

Log In to PestWeb to View CEU Requirements

The commensal rodents are highly intelligent and adaptive pests that must be managed because of their ability to cause sickness and diseases. Understanding their behavior is the root of effective rodent management. After completing this course, you should be able to identify the commensal rodents and Peromyscus mice, recognize the diseases carried by pest rodents, understand how these rodents sense and navigate their environment and then recommend the proper management methods for each. Note: due to the scope of material covered this class is 104 min in duration.

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