Species MammalsBlack Rat

Black Rat

Rattus rattus

CommonMammal
Illustration of Black Rat (Rattus rattus)

The Black Rat, also called the roof rat or ship rat, is a non-native species of Asian origin that has spread worldwide through commerce and has caused the extinction of numerous island species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. It is a superior climber compared to the Norway rat, readily inhabiting the upper stories of buildings and invading tree nests. Black rats were the primary carriers of fleas that spread Bubonic Plague in medieval Europe.

Habitat
Urban buildings, docks, warehouses, and disturbed habitats
Diet
Grains, fruit, seeds, insects, and stored food
How common
Common

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