©Amy Lewis
Brown rat
Scientific name: Rattus norvegicus
The brown rat has a bad reputation, but it mostly lives side-by-side with us without any problems. It can be seen in any habitat.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 15-27cmTail: 10-24cm
Weight: 200-300g
Average lifespan: 1-3 years
Conservation status
Common.
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
The brown rat is an incredibly adaptable mammal and can be found almost everywhere in the UK, in any habitat, all it needs is shelter and food. Brown rats are omnivorous, eating pretty much anything, from fruit and seeds to human food waste, insects, birds' eggs or even small mammals. They are particularly common around towns and cities. Brown rats live in loose colonies and dig their own burrows. They are famously good breeders; a female brown rat can breed from around 3 months old, and has an average of five litters a year, each of up to 12 young.How to identify
The brown rat has grey-brown fur, a pointed nose, large, bare ears and a long, scaly tail. It is much bigger than any mouse species. The similar water vole has a much rounder face, small ears that do not protrude, and a furry tail.In our area
It is considered bad luck to say this species' name in the Isle of Man. Instead they are referred to as Longtails, Ringies or r.a.t.s.