The largest of the rat species found in Southern Ca. Norway rat's are often found underneath homes, in sub-areas, walls, trash areas and burrows. Norway rats prefer meat, fish, and other animal protein rich foods, as well as cereals. The Norway rats most easily distinguished feature is his tail, which is generally shorter than the length of his body. |
The roof rat is more frequently seen than the Norway rat. His smaller body, speed and agility make him a better candidate for trees, roofs, and attics, although in competitive areas he may also be found in trash bins, under homes, in garages and even burrows. The roof rat prefers nuts, berries, grains, and other types of non-meat foods, although he also will be observed eating just about anything if circumstances require it. |
The house mouse is the most common mouse found in homes not only in our region, but throughout the world. The house mouse is very prolific, weening an average of 35-40 young per year. He is also an excellent climber and jumper. The most common signs of the house mouse are his fecal droppings which he voids at a rate of 50 per day. He is considered a vector of disease which is spread mostly through his urination and fecal droppings in human food sources. |