Details
Rattus rattus
Black rat is a rat closely tied to human movement and now spread through ports and buildings worldwide. On islands, predation on eggs and young animals can make it a damaging invasive species.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses forests, farms, ports, warehouses, houses, and urban vegetation. Main habitat types in this guide are urban, forest, coast.
Typical length 16-24 cm, weight 75 g-230 g. A slender body, large ears, and long tail distinguish it from the heavier brown rat.
It is nocturnal and a social species. It is nocturnal and social, often climbing in buildings and trees.
It is omnivorous. Seeds, fruit, grain, insects, and human foods are all eaten.
Females reproduce rapidly and raise repeated litters in hidden nests.
Although still widespread in places, it remains sensitive to habitat change. On islands, predation on eggs and young animals can make it a damaging invasive species.
