Roof Rat

OVERVIEW

• Also known as the black rat and ship rat
• Adults weigh 5-9 oz
• Head/body is 6-8 in. with tail similar in length
• Grayish black with gray to whitish belly
• Large ears
• Pointed snout
• Color blind
• Strong sense of hearing, smell, touch, and taste
• Active at night
• Prefers seeds, vegetables, and fruits
• Commonly lives above ground
• Uses utility lines and fences as runways
• Known in history for spreading bubonic plaque