Brown Rat

Likely originating from Asia, the Brown rat was introduced to other parts of the world; in the Middle Ages. Today, the Brown rat can be found on all continents of the World; with the exception of the Arctic, Antarctica, isolated islands and the Canadian city of Calgary AB.

The Brown rat is usually brown or dark grey in color. It's body size can reach ten inches, with a tail that is often equal in size. Although there have been reports of rats "as big as cats", on average they can weigh twelve to nineteen ounces.

It is not uncommon to discover "social groups" of this rodent, with numbers that could reach (up to) sixty members. Such an infestation, would require a fast and focused exterminating strategy; to properly control and eliminate. The notion that there are as many rats in a city as people, is dependant upon such variables; as climate and living conditions. For example, the aging infrastructure, high moisture and poverty rate in New York City, continues to contribute to that city's rodent pest problem.

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Roof Rat

The Roof rat prefers warm climates, and very likely to reside within 100 miles of a coastline. Although very common in most parts of Phoenix Arizona, the Roof rat has been discovered along the southern U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coast states; from Virginia to Texas and throughout Florida.

Because Roof rats are known to transmit disease, eat household food supplies and damage structures/dwellings, they are a serious cause for concern; for many homeowners.

Trapping this rodent is often an exterminator's recommended method of pest control, especially if there are small children, pets or elderly; present in the home.

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Rats

Rats are typically distinguishable from other rodents, by their size. In many cases, rats are notably larger.

Generally referred to as “Old World rats” or “True rats“, these pests are opportunistic survivors; and are commonly discovered living near humans.

The most common rat species are the:

• Roof rat (Black rat), and
• Brown rat

Known to cause serious damage to food supplies (including other goods), and contribute to the spread of sickness and disease, rats and other rodents have become a common concern; for homeowners, exterminating companies and pest control professionals.

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Rodents

Approximately forty percent of the mammal species are considered rodents. Familiar examples include:

• rats,
• mice,
• chipmunks; and
• squirrels.

The most common characteristic of rodents, is the two (continuously growing) incisors, in the upper and lower jaws; used to gnaw wood, gain access to food, and bite predators.

Because many rodents eat or destroy human food supplies and spread sickness or disease, they are often the target of your local exterminator or pest control professional.

Read more about rodents.