Brown Rats

At Ozane Termite & Pest Control in Toms River, New Jersey, we frequently deal with brown rats, also known as Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus). These rodents are among the most common pest species found in urban and suburban environments, and they can pose significant health risks and structural damage if they infest homes or businesses.

Identification of Brown Rats

Brown rats are larger than other common rodent species, typically measuring 7 to 9.5 inches in body length, with a tail that adds an additional 6 to 8 inches. Their fur is coarse and ranges from brown to gray, and they have a stocky body, small eyes, and blunt snouts. Unlike roof rats, which prefer elevated spaces, brown rats are ground-dwellers, commonly found in basements, sewers, and ground-level areas.

Behavior and Habitat

Brown rats are highly adaptable and can survive in a variety of environments. In Toms River, they thrive in areas where food and shelter are easily accessible, such as:

• Urban environments
• Residential areas with poor sanitation
• Sewers and storm drains
• Garbage areas and dumpsters
• Farms and agricultural areas

Brown rats tend to burrow in the ground and are excellent diggers. They will often create nests in piles of debris, under buildings, or even in home foundations. Indoors, they can be found in basements, storage rooms, and other ground-level spaces.

Diet

Brown rats are omnivores, meaning they will eat a wide variety of foods, but they tend to prefer grains, fruits, meats, and garbage. This makes homes, restaurants, and other buildings attractive targets, especially if food is improperly stored or waste is not well-managed.

Health Risks

Brown rats are known carriers of numerous diseases, which they can transmit through their urine, droppings, and bites. Some of the most concerning health risks associated with brown rats include:

• Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can lead to severe liver and kidney damage in humans.
• Salmonellosis: This bacterial infection can contaminate food, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps.
• Hantavirus: A potentially deadly virus that can be spread through contact with rat droppings, urine, or saliva.
• Rat-bite fever: A bacterial infection transmitted through bites or exposure to rat droppings or urine.

In addition to these diseases, brown rats can introduce parasites like fleas, mites, and ticks into homes, which can affect both humans and pets.

Structural Damage

Beyond health risks, brown rats can cause significant damage to structures. Their strong teeth allow them to chew through a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and even electrical wiring, which increases the risk of fire. They can also damage insulation, drywall, and other building materials as they gnaw and burrow into walls and floors to build their nests.

Signs of a Brown Rat Infestation

Detecting an infestation early is crucial for preventing further damage and health risks. Common signs of brown rat activity include:

• Droppings: Rat droppings are dark, elongated, and about 3/4 inch long. They are typically found near food sources, along walls, or in hidden areas like basements and storage rooms.
• Gnaw Marks: Rats will chew through various materials, leaving behind rough, uneven holes or marks on wood, plastic, and wires.
• Burrows: Outdoors, brown rats often dig burrows near foundations, gardens, or under debris piles.
• Grease Marks: As rats move through your home, their oily fur leaves dark smudges along walls and baseboards.
• Noises: You may hear scratching, scurrying, or gnawing sounds at night, as rats are typically nocturnal.

Similar Pests: House Mouse, Roof Rat