Question By: New Zealand homes commonly face infestations from three main rodent species: Norway rats, roof rats, and house mice. Each species has distinct characteristics and behaviors, making proper identification crucial for effective control.
Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Also known as the brown rat or sewer rat, the Norway rat is large, weighing between 350-500g. It has a blunt nose, small ears, shaggy brown or grey fur, and a thick tail shorter than its body. These rats are burrowers, often found in basements, under buildings, or near water sources. Their presence is usually marked by burrows, grease marks along walls, and large, capsule-shaped droppings (18-20mm long).
Roof Rat (Rattus rattus)
Commonly called the black rat, roof rats are smaller and more agile than Norway rats. They have a slender body, large ears, and a long tail that exceeds their head and body length. Their fur is dark brown to black. Roof rats are excellent climbers, preferring attics, roof spaces, and upper floors of buildings. Signs of infestation include droppings in high areas, gnaw marks, and grease smudges along rafters.
House Mouse (Mus musculus)
House mice are the smallest of the three, weighing 12-30g, with light brown to grey fur and large ears. They are highly adaptable and nest indoors in walls, cupboards, or pantries. Common indicators of a house mouse infestation include small, pellet-shaped droppings (3-6mm), gnaw marks, and shredded nesting materials.
Identifying the correct rodent species is essential for targeted control and effective pest management. Visit https://flick.nz/how-to-identify-different-rodent-species-in-your-home/ to know more.
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