What Is the Habitat of a Rat?

The two most common North American rat species are the Norway rat and the Roof rat. These animals originated in Asia but spread throughout the world by ships. Rats are considered to be scavengers and therefore can usually survive on almost anything, in almost any kind of environment. Rats are rodents and are usually not kept as pets.

  1. Natural Habitat

    • Rats prefer temperate zones. Some rats are good swimmers and tend to stay close to sources of water or damp areas. Rats mainly stay in darker areas to avoid predators. Certain rat species also live in forested areas and dwell in trees; others prefer to dig in the ground and dwell below. Rats can be found all over the world, except in extreme climates.

    Modern Habitat

    • Today, rats mostly live in and around cities. This is because they have few natural enemies and an abundant source of food. Rats are commonly found in sewers, basements, attics, under houses and in and around subways.

    Norway Rat

    • The Norway rat is on of the larger of the species, growing up to a foot long.It is often referred to as the "sewer rat." These rats tend to be burrowers and are normally found underground, because they tend to be poor climbers. These rats sometimes build their nests outside the walls of homes or in various clumps of vegetation. Their homes can also be found beneath sidewalks or in basements. These rats are known for chewing on materials and causing damage, and are also very aggressive.

    Roof Rat

    • Also known as the black rat, a roof rat is a good climber. It often inhabits roofs, attics and upper floors in warm areas. They have also been found to build their homes in yucca, palm and cypress trees, as well as tall grass. Roof rats have poor vision and are color blind, but they have extremely strong senses of hearing, smell, touch and taste.