Rats (also known as Muridae) are a large family of rodents which can be found in every part of the world except for Antarctica. They're considered pests by many people because they spread diseases, destroy property, and generally, make a pest and nuisance of themselves. There are many rat species that can be found all over the world - so many in fact, that people have started asking questions like, "Where did rats come from?" Rats are very much a part of history and had a significant influence on the course of world events and, as such, it's important to understand where they came from. So where did they come from, and how did they come to live in every part of the world? This article will try to shed some light on those questions, as well as describe some of the wildest and most interesting facts about rats. Where Did Rats Come From? Rats are believed to have originated from Southeast Asia. Around 200,000 years ago they started spreading to Northeast Asia and then to the Middle East about 3600 years ago. Later on, they spread to Africa, and once there, they conquered the world, the first major outbreaks occurred through transportation and trading routes. Rats can be found all over Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, and South America. They're even found on some of the smaller islands near these continents such as Fiji where they were introduced by humans. Evolutionary Origins of Rats In Asia and North America, the ancestors of rats first appear in fossil records about 54 million years ago, at the end of the Paleocene and the beginning of the Eocene period. They're believed to have evolved from anagalids, a small family of rodent-like mammals that also direct descendants of Lagomorpha or rabbits and hares. The Murids or Muridae family (Rattus, musculus, and relatives) first appeared in the fossil record about 34 million years ago in the late Eocene period. They have evolved to become their modern versions in the Miocene era about 25 million years ago. The Rattus genus, native to southeast Asia, Mediterranean countries, and the Middle East, first emerged from within Murids around 5 million years ago. After which it gave rise to many new and distinct species. Ancestors of brown rats (Norway rat) and black rats (Roof rat) diverged approximately 2 million years ago and both groups have since evolved to become their modern-day versions. To this day, the genus Rattus has 51 known species. Old World Rats The old world rats, black rat (ship rat), and the brown rat (Norway rat) (also known as Rattus rattus and Rattus norvegicus) are the most common type of rat you're likely to find. Trading and transportation routes very likely have played a big part in the spread of these rats and they are considered one of the most successful invasive species in history. Black Rats or Roof rats (Rattus rattus) Black rats (Rattus rattus) otherwise known as ship rats or roof rats are very adaptable and can survive in almost any environment. Infamous for their role as a major carrier of the bubonic plague, came from Asia and spread throughout the world, killing 200 million people in Europe alone. They're strong swimmers too which means they don't have to rely on humans for transport, although that certainly helps speed up the process of spreading them across continents. Black rats are the most common in cities and urban areas where they thrive in sewers, drains, and old buildings. These city rats are often found in homes and shops, feeding on food waste. They're also excellent climbers which means they can easily access the upper levels of buildings through windows, pipes, drainpipes, etc. Black rats have been living with humans for over 4000 years and their adaptability has allowed them to thrive in almost any environment. Brown Rats or Norway rat (Rattus Norvegicus) The brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) is slightly bigger than the black rat with a body length of around 15 inches. They're found in sewers, basements, cellars, and underground systems. They are also called sewer rats or Norway rats; yet, despite the name, these rats actually originated in China! Brown rats thrive in urban areas and sewers but can live just about anywhere. They often find their way into homes where they cause damage to buildings and property, as well as spread diseases through droppings and urine which is why humans try so hard to control brown rat numbers in urban areas. Origin of the Brown Rat Brown rats are believed to have originated from the plains of Asia, probably from what is now north China or Mongolia where the rodents lived in burrows, feeding mainly on plant material. As a result of trading and transportation routes, they were brought to Europe from Asia sometime around 1775 where their numbers increased dramatically. In North America, the brown rat was introduced in the early 1800s via ships that sailed into port cities along both coasts. Origin of Black Rats Black rats originated in the Indo-Malayan region and started spreading from there. These wild rats quickly found their way to the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and then finally North America where they were a cause of many problems for settlers trying to make a new life in this strange land. How Did Rats Spread Across the World? There are several different theories as to how rats managed to spread across the globe. How they spread so easily is still a topic of debate among researchers but it is widely believed that they made the journey by hitching a ride on boats. Trade is booming in the world so it's very easy for boats to pick up a rat or two without knowing. As the old world traders expanded their trade routes, rats were able to spread like wildfire. Most likely, it was a combination of all these things and more which led to the spread of black and brown rats across the world in such a short period of time. Some ships would have dozens of rats on them and once they reached their destination, the rat population exploded exponentially until every continent had a thriving rat community within its borders. Arrival in Europe Rats have reached Europe around 1300 and quickly spread across the continent. They have traveled with humans and quickly became a part of their ecosystem. Black rats arrived first and then later brown rats as well. It was first thought that the Rattus rattus arrived in Europe during the crusades but more recent evidence suggests that they arrived much earlier. Brown rats arrived a few centuries later. The two species thrived in the urban atmosphere of European cities - over-populated, and full of food scraps and garbage, an ideal environment for rats to make their home. The brown rat especially thrived in the sewers beneath these cities, feeding off the human food scraps and waste. They were able to breed in huge numbers and they have spread like wildfire. The silk road trade route also played a huge part in the spread of rats because trading ships from China brought rat-infested cargoes to Europe. The Black Death is believed to have spread due to the movement of these rats throughout the continent. The bubonic plague was carried by fleas that lived on black rats and once it entered a city, millions were infected before anyone realized what had happened. How Did Rats Come to America? It is believed that rats first arrived in the United States around 1776, The brown rats, specifically, first came in boxes of grain and other food supplies brought in by Hessian troops that are hired by the British during their war against America. Since then, they have been introduced to new areas by way of cargo boats, and ships, and then later on by cars, trucks, and trains. These animals are able to adapt to new climates easily so they were able to survive in the wild with relative ease across the world once humans made it part of their territory. Commensalism with Humans Rats have lived with humans for thousands of years. They've hitched rides on boats, live in human houses, and have even made their homes in the sewers of big cities. They are able to adapt to almost any environment. They have been a part of human society for so long that they've become a natural part of the ecosystem in most places and their numbers have swelled to an impossible number - outnumbering humans in some cities, especially densely populated ones like New York City where there is food waste everywhere you look. Other Means of Migrating Besides using ships, trains and trucks, there are some other ways that rats have been able to reach new destinations. They can travel on foot through sewers and drainage pipes, and they swim! Rats are great swimmers and many have crossed rivers to get into new territories. In fact, rats can swim half a mile and thread in water for 3 days straight without stopping! It is thought that swarms of rats have crossed the Volga river into Russia in this way. Conclusion As we've seen, rats have come a long way from their origins. They've traveled along with humans for thousands of years and if not for their penchant for spreading diseases and destroying stuff, they would have been one of the greatest traveling companions. Unfortunately, that's not how they've made their mark on history! They do have some uses though. For example, all laboratory rats are domesticated brown rats. A brown lab rat is a very common pet and is even used in scientific research. Rats are also used for their fur which is turned into clothing, and they've even eaten in some countries around the world! Rats have been in this country a long time, but AAAC Wildlife Removal is here to help with all of your rat trapper needs! Rat FAQs Do rats burrow underground? Rats do burrow, but not all rats live in burrows. Some rat den is in trees, in abandoned buildings, or even in people's attics! Can rats swim underwater? Do rats like to swim? The answer's yes! They are great swimmers and can tread water for up to three days! Do all rats carry diseases? Rats do carry diseases, the common rat diseases include salmonella, leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever. These diseases can be passed on to humans, so it's important to be careful when handling them! Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/where-did-rats-originate

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1744

Have you ever encountered a rat? If so, then you know that they are all over the place. You may even have one or two living in your attic right now. Rats are nasty and disease-ridden creatures that carry many different types of viruses, bacteria, and parasites that can cause sickness in humans. In fact, they are responsible for the demise of more human lives than any other animal in history. As if that wasn't bad enough, the rat infestation problem is only getting worse. That's right; there are more rats now living on Earth than at any other time in human history! In this article, we will be exploring rat-borne illnesses, how these diseases affect people's health, and finally provide some tips on how to prevent rat infestations and diseases in your home! Rat-Borne Diseases Rats have been known to carry diseases for centuries. In the past, rat infestations have been blamed for spreading plagues that killed millions of people across Europe and Asia. In fact, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), rats and mice are known to spread over 35 different diseases and infections to humans. Rats can carry many different types of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi on their bodies and in their bloodstream. These can be passed on to humans either directly or indirectly. For instance, rats can pass diseases onto humans through bites or scratches that break the skin, but they can also spread germs on their fur and then transfer these pathogens to people when we come into contact with them without washing our hands first. Diseases That Are Directly Transmitted By Rats There are many different types of diseases that rats can directly transmit to humans. Some of the more common ones are: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome is a severe respiratory disease that can be caused by direct contact with rat droppings, urine, or saliva. Some of the symptoms include fever and chills, headache, body aches, and dizziness. Left untreated HPS can lead to difficulty in breathing which requires hospitalization in an intensive care unit. Rat Bite Fever (Streptobacillus moniliformis) This illness is contracted by either ingesting contaminated food or water, coming in direct contact with the saliva of an infected rat, or through a cut that comes into contact with rodent urine or feces. Rat-bite fever typically starts out like many other illnesses with fever, chills, headaches, and muscle aches. Many people recover from rat-bite fever after a few weeks of these initial symptoms without any further complications. However, in some cases, the disease can turn into something much more serious such as kidney or heart failure which could eventually lead to death if not treated. Hepatitis E This disease is caused by the hepatitis E virus that can be found in rat droppings, urine, and saliva. People contract this disease when they come in contact with these animals' bodily fluids through either a break in the skin or through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Symptoms include fever and jaundice, very common symptoms, which is why this disease can be easily confused with other more common illnesses such as hepatitis A or the flu. Hepatitis E is not typically deadly in healthy adults, but it can cause liver damage and even death to people with weak immune systems such as those who are elderly or suffer from other chronic health conditions. Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can be transmitted to humans by way of rat urine. When a human catches leptospirosis from a rat, the symptoms can be similar to those of other illnesses such as a fever and headache. In rare cases, severe complications from leptospirosis include liver or kidney failure which could lead to death if not treated in time. Tularemia (Rabbit Fever) This infectious disease usually affects small mammals, but it can also spread to humans through contact with rat urine, saliva, or feces. It is a serious disease that can lead to death if not treated in time so it's important to see your doctor immediately if you think you might have been exposed. Salmonellosis (salmonella) This bacterial illness causes diarrhea that lasts for several days. It can also cause vomiting and fever which is why it should be taken very seriously because left untreated salmonella poisoning could eventually lead to death if not treated properly in a hospital setting. Illnesses That Are Indirectly Transmitted By Rats In addition to the illnesses that rats directly spread, there are many other types of illnesses that they can transmit without ever coming in direct contact with us. Rat parasites such as ticks, lice, and mites are the usual vector for these illnesses. Some examples of diseases that rats can indirectly transmit to humans include: Typhus This disease is a bacterial infection caused by a pathogen called Rickettsia Prowazekii and it can be spread through rat mites. When people come in contact with infected clothing, bedding, or furniture that has been exposed to the droppings of an infected rodent then they could also contract this illness. Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, and rash which is about as bad as it gets for typhus. Plague This is another serious disease that people can contract through rat parasites such as ticks and fleas. The parasites drink from the blood of infected rodents and they carry the bacterium Yersinia pestis in their gut. When a human comes into contact with an infected tick or other rat parasites, or with materials that have been exposed to them such as clothing, bedding, or furniture then they could also contract plague which can be fatal if not treated in time. Colorado tick fever This disease is caused by a virus that can be transmitted to humans through the bite of a tick that has fed on the blood of infected animals. Wild rodents are the usual carriers of this disease. The only way to protect yourself against this disease is by avoiding contact with wild animals such as rats, mice, and chipmunks which are all common carriers of Colorado tick fever. Cutaneous leishmaniasis This is a parasitic disease that usually affects rodents, but it can spread to humans through the bite of sandflies which are themselves infected by an infected rodent's blood. The symptoms include red ulcers on the skin and while not life-threatening they should be taken very seriously because if left untreated, leishmaniasis lesions will worsen and could turn into open wounds that may never heal properly. Lyme disease This disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi which can be transmitted to humans through infected ticks. If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause chronic arthritis and heart problems in addition to other serious complications so it should not be taken lightly under any circumstances. Murine typhus This disease is caused by a bacteria called Rickettsia typhi which can be transmitted to humans through infected fleas. Early symptoms include fever, headache, body aches, and chills so if you experience any of these it's important to go see your doctor right away. Severe cases of murine typhus are rare but could potentially lead to organ damage. How to Keep Yourself Safe Rats have been spreading infection ever since the dawn of civilization and as their populations expand they become more likely to come into contact with humans. This is why we must learn how to protect ourselves from rats before an outbreak occurs. The last thing you want is a serious illness that could leave you in the hospital for weeks or even months. There are several steps that you can take to avoid rat-borne illnesses including: Home and yard upkeep This is by far the most important step. If your home is in disarray with trash and other debris scattered around then you are practically begging for an infestation of rats or other rodents such as mice, chipmunks, or squirrels to move into your space without resistance. Be sure that all food sources have been removed from inside and outside of your home because the scent will attract rodents and insects to invade. Control the rodent population Make sure that your home is rat-proof by sealing entry points like cracks and crevices. By doing this you can reduce the chances of coming into contact with rats and other rodents. Wash your hands Washing your hands and changing your clothes before and after you come in contact with animals is a good way to prevent yourself from contracting any serious illnesses. Stay away from floodwater Flood water can have infected urine and feces mixed in with it which can enter your body through breaks in the skin like wounds or cuts. Avoid areas with high rat populations If you don't want to come into contact with rats then stay away from places where there are high concentrations of rodents such as dumpsters behind restaurants and grocery stores. Call rat control if you have a rodent infestation You don't know where did rats come from on your property? And you don't know how to get rid of them? In this case, it would be best to call a professional rat exterminator company like AAAC Wildlife Removal for help. If you don't take care of your rodent problem then you could end up with bigger problems such as a full-blown infestation that will be very difficult to control. Conclusion Rats have been responsible for spreading sickness throughout time and there is always a risk that they will spread them to humans. These infections range from mild to fatal and can be contracted either directly or indirectly. By taking the right preventative measures, you can reduce your chances of coming into contact with a rat and contracting a serious illness. This means being proactive in protecting yourself from these illnesses by maintaining your home, washing hands frequently, staying away from areas with high concentrations of rodents, and calling professionals if you have a rat infestation problem on your property. Rat FAQs Do rats like to swim? Yes! rats like to swim! They are often seen swimming in canals and streams. Rats are excellent swimmers and can tread water for up to three days! Do rats dig holes? Rats dig holes in the ground for a variety of reasons. They may be looking for food, water, or shelter. Holes also provide rats with a way to escape from predators. Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/rat-diseases

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1736

Having black rats in your home can be a scary thing. Rats are fascinating creatures that are generally maligned because they contaminate food and spread disease. However, they have some remarkable characteristics as well. Did you know that they are excellent climbers, can laugh, have a large species, and their strong teeth never stop growing?  Let us learn more about rats and what makes them unique. Many people cringe and shudder at the thought of rats anywhere near them. In most cases, rats inhibit office buildings and homes because there are dark places to hide and forage for food scraps. Rats Can Swim Can you believe it? Rats are great swimmers and could give Michael Phelps some competition. Sure, rats can hold their breath for up to three minutes and can tread water for up to three days.  Some species can even swim over a mile without getting tired. There are stories of rats ending up in toilets. They can make their way up through the pipes easily. A Rat's Teeth Never Stops Growing Rats gnaw on anything they can get their paws on. They do this because their incisors never stop growing. If they didn't regularly grind them down, a rat's teeth would grow so long that they may become handicapped. Its front teeth can grow up to five inches in a year, and it needs to wear them down somehow. Chewing on things helps rats with problems with their teeth. They love to chew on wood and can bite through aluminum sheeting, scale brick, cinder blocks, brick or cement walls, and even lead. There Are Many Types of Rats The Norway rat, roof rat(black rats), white rat, and Rattus Norvegicus are the most commonly known species. However, most people don't know that over 56 known species of rats exist worldwide. Some Rats Get Big There are some giant rats out there. The rats rummaging through garbage cans are the most commonly seen. How big can rats get? Well, this one rodent called the Sumatran bamboo rat can measure 20 inches and weigh up to 8.8 pounds! That is comparable to a small housecat. The Gambian pouched rats are not as heavy as three pounds but can measure up to three feet long. The total length is determined by measuring from head to tail. Rats Are Prolific Breeders Rodents are prolific breeders. That is why they are so commonly found around the world. A female rat can have babies 13 times per year. A typical litter of six to 10 pups is expected when she gives birth. Sexual maturity occurs when these pups are only three to four months old. That means that young rats can start spawning their own broods by the time a human baby is able to hold up its head unsupported! They Are Social Creatures Communities are essential for rats. Most of them live in large groups where they play, sleep together, and even groom each other. On the other hand, they can be highly territorial, so an unfamiliar rat might be treated aggressively if they feel threatened. Did you know that a "group" of rats is called a "mischief"? Rat Can Carry Pathogens That Spread Disease One of the most well-known facts about rats is an important one. They do indeed carry pathogens that affect humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that rodents can spread over 37 diseases. In 2003 rats were responsible for a monkeypox outbreak. Rodents also played a considerable part in infecting humans during the middle ages of the bubonic plague (black death). Rats Can Laugh When rats play, they experience social joy. It is something that researcher Jakk Panksepp studied.  This behavior results in a high-pitched chirping noise. Their laugh is unlike a chuckle you might hear from a human being. Rats Can Squeeze Through Small Holes Most rats can fit through a hole the size of a coin. That is thanks to its skeleton, which is collapsible. The ribs can fold down like an umbrella because it is hinged to the spine. Any big hole enough for the rat's head to fit through should allow the rest of the body to pass. A Rats Bite is Painful Rats can bite hard. Very hard. Their jaws are built similarly to an alligator and can exert a massive downward force. Up to 7000 pounds of pressure per square inch can be delivered through their jawbone. That means it can easily tear through human skin and bone. There have been cases of people losing their fingers due to rats biting them. It uses the grinding features of its jaw to tear through bone membranes. Rats Can Control Their Bladder This statement holds valid even until today. Most people might assume that rats have no control over where they urinate. Rats can be extremely fussy about where they defecate and pee. A fancy rat typically makes use of particular corners and can be easily toilet trained.  Most people use a ferret size litter tray filled with paper cat litter. There are, however, other options on the market that are more rat-friendly. When rats pee, it is the way they mark their territory. If you get urinated on by your pet rats, consider yourself owned by them.  Rats are Exceptionally Clean As animals most often associated with rubbish bins and sewers, people tend to think of rats as dirty animals. They spend several hours each day cleaning themselves and others. Grooming takes place individually or as groups. This provides a sort of social bonding experience among the commensal rodents. Sometimes going into an extreme cleaning mode is considered an act of dominance. It is generally done among family members to establish a pecking order. Even though rats have poor eyesight and are color blind, a rat's sense of touch, smell, and taste are incredible. Their excellent senses have been used to detect landmines since the first World War. Pet rats usually employ water to help with their cleaning regime. By adding a water dish to your rat's cage, you can observe their washing habits. Pet Rats Are Just Like Wild Rats Most people might not like the fact that pet rats are nothing more than domesticated brown rats. They have developed various fur types, color patterns, and a calmer disposition over the years.  However, they are still the same species and can breed with wild cousins.  Initially, rats were domesticated to the blood sport rat baiting. Punters could bet on how many rats a terrier could kill within a particular time limit they gained. Only in the 20th century did they gain popularity as pets. The Bosavi Woolly Rat In 2009 the Bosavi woolly rat was discovered in the Papua New Guinea jungle. It can reach a length of 32 inches and is the most enormous rat found today. The size of this animal is similar to the Gambian pouched rat and other rats in that category. It was discovered by the team filming a BBC wildlife documentary. The find happened in an extinct volcano crater known as Mount Bosavi. This cater is 3,300 feet above sea level, an area that no one through the rat could exist. These rats also show no fear of humans, but that could be due to their large size. Female Rat Facts Within six hours, a doe (female rat) can mate around 500 times. Females are fertile every three weeks and can produce a typical litter size of seven to 20 babies. While all rats are social creatures, females tend to be more territorial and smaller in size. At the same time, the male rat counterpart is often more playful and snuggly. Brown Rats The common brown rat features a pointed nose, large bare ears, scaly tail, and grey-brown fur. Known as the fancy rat, the male rats can grow up to 10 inches. If you want to learn more about what rats look like, click here! An undomesticated brown rat can spread diseases through its urine—diseases such as Salmonella, Listeria, Leptospirosis, or Weil's disease.  These creatures can also cause a significant amount of structural damage to homes and furniture. An infestation can ruin a business's reputation. Conclusion Many animal deterrent tips can be found online to get rid of your problem as soon as possible. Things like having animals that eat rats (example: cats!) in the household is found to be very effective in preventing rats in house. If you are struggling with dealing with rats in the garden, at home, or in your workplace, AAAC Wildlife Removal can assist you with that.  We hope that you learned something from all these interesting facts about rats! Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/cool-facts-about-rats/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1453

The most common types of wild rats in North America include: Brown Rats: also known as wharf rats, or Norway rats Black Rats: also known as ship rats, or roof rats Packrats: also known as wood rats Marsh rice rats Rats are extremely common animals to have near your home, and there are different species you should know about if you think you might have an infestation. Read on, and find out the different types of rats, some cool rat facts, as well as how to manage them. Brown Rat, Wharf Rat, or Norway Rat Among all the rat species, brown rats are the most common ones. They usually live in urban areas, which is why you might have seen them around your house or know someone who has. Their scientific name is Rattus Norvegicus. Norway rats came from China, but now they are all over the world - basically, in any place where there are humans (except for Antarctica). Norway rats typically have grey or brown rat fur with light fur on their underside. It is one of the largest rat species, and it can weigh twice as a roof rat and much more than a house mouse. Additionally, brown rats are often eight to 10 inches long, while their tails are seven to 10 inches long, which makes the tail almost as big as the body. Adult males can weigh 350 g on average, whereas females are often around 250 g. In some cases, Norway rats can weigh up to 1,000 g, but that can almost exclusively happen with house rats. Wild specimens are almost always 300 g at most. Therefore, stories with 'rats as big as cats' are commonly an exaggeration since most of them are considerably smaller. Just like other rodents, brown rats can carry many diseases that are dangerous to humans, which is why rat control is so important. Unfortunately, a Norway rat specimen is part of an invasive species, and in spite of the rats' poor eyesight, they are superb climbers and have a keen sense of smell, so only a pest control company like AAAC Wildlife Removal could help you manage the infestation properly. A Norway rat or brown rat often lives in places like sewers and can transmit diseases such as rat-bite fever, cryptosporidiosis, Weil's disease, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, and hemorrhagic fever. Even though the brown rat transmits many different diseases, domesticated Norway rats are often the pet many people choose. Scientists can also use a brown rat as a lab rat since their physiology is ideal for many experiments. However, wild rats are still dangerous, so you should never hesitate to call and get professionals to help you if you have a rat problem. Ship Rat, Roof Rat, or Black Rat Adult black rats are smaller than Norway ones, as they are often between five and seven inches long. Their tails are between six and eight inches long, and they often weigh 75 to 230 g, but it entirely depends on their subspecies. Even though black rats have a very specific name, their fur can be a different color such as light brown or grey. Furthermore, they are native from India but they now reside in every continent of the world. Black rats are omnivores, and they are famous for being a menace to farmers because they often eat their crops. Moreover, roof rats often don't have food preferences, so they could eat anything from swine to dog and human food. Both black and brown rats belong to the genus Rattus, and they can live wherever humans are near. However, black rats often prefer less-populated places to live in, which is why they are not so common in urban areas. A black rat could live in areas with many people, but they became immensely famous due to their role in the spreading of the bubonic plague. Since they deeply enjoy staying in ships, they used to live there and spread the plague among the people aboard, which is why it quickly spread throughout Europe; thus the rats' nickname: 'ship' rats. Moreover, a black rat often seeks more tropical climates. Nonetheless, there is evidence that it can survive in extremely cold weather, which shows that it can adapt to extreme conditions when they need to survive. Black rat populations are a threat to many natural habitats, crops, and people. And despite many rat predators lurking about, their population just keeps growing. They carry different diseases, such as typhus, Weil's disease, the bubonic plague, trichinosis, and toxoplasmosis. At the same time, they feed on insects, birds, human food, and agricultural-based crops alike, which makes them extremely harmful. Although many people like having domestic rats as pets, wild black rats can carry many diseases, viruses, and bacteria. Most homeowners quickly identify a nest if they find shredded paper in secluded spaces, so you should consider that if you want to make sure you have none of these specimens at home. Woodrats or Packrats Also known as bushy-tailed rats or woodrats, pack rats are rodents as well, and they usually weigh between 300 g and 600 g. Adult females are somewhat lighter since their weight can vary from 230 g to 350 g, with an average of 270 g. Packrats belong to the same species as cotton rats, which is called the rodent genus Neotoma. They have very large black eyes, a fluffy long tail, and big ears. They are extremely common in the United States and northern Mexico, as well as other parts of Central America. Just like many other rats tend to do so, packrats build nests. They find any available debris such as sticks, twigs, and branches, which can be very dangerous. In many cases, they might get into your attic and damage electrical wiring, or they could even get into your car and do some serious harm. Overall, they wreak havoc anywhere they go, and they often make a lot of noise, so identifying them is not very hard. A unique rat characteristic that they have is they will drop something they're carrying if they find something else that interests them more. At the same time, they often like shiny objects. Other species don't demonstrate this feature, but packrats stick to a specific habitat type that is located in their range. In other words, once they have built a nest, they often stay there for a long time. They can eat fruits or any other type of food, and their coat is usually light brown. Overall, they might try to locate any place where they have easy access to things they can eat and steal to build their nests. Marsh Rice Rats Marsh rice rats are another type of rodent people might find in their homes, especially if they live in the United States. They are particularly common in Florida, and the specimens in that state often have a more reddish coat of fur. This type of rat is very similar to black and brown ones, but the color of their fur is immensely different. Unlike the other two specimens, this one has a grey or brown underside, and heads backs, and torsos have lighter-colored fur. Additionally, the feet are off-white. On average, marsh rice rats weigh 40 to 80 g, and males are typically heavier than females. They are also nine to 12 inches in length, which makes them bigger than other species. Unlike Norway and black ones, marsh rice ones are not that common. Scientists believe it's due to weather conditions. Furthermore, there are often more marsh rats in the summer than in winter, though in states like Louisiana and Texas they are more stable during all seasons. Studies done in Mississippi proved that meteorological phenomena such as rain and floods caused an immense impact on the rat population, which is why it can dramatically change from year to year. How to Deal with Infestations If you find rats' nests, you might be wondering whether you have true rats at home. In many cases, you might want to take care of the situation yourself. However, the best way to stop rodents from infesting your home is to get professional help. Contacting the experts at AAAC Wildlife Removal provides you with a team of people who are ready to manage your issue. Moreover, you never have to worry about using the wrong methods and suffer from a persistent rat infestation. With AAAC Wildlife Removal, you can simply trust that the experts solve your problem as soon as possible. Once they're at your house or place of business, they can evaluate the situation and determine the cause of your rat issue and resolve it quickly and completely. Finding rats and managing an infestation sounds easy, but using the wrong methods can cause a lot of consequences. To avoid any unwanted and unnecessary situations, you should trust experts in the field and leave everything up to them. Rats live near human habitations, which is why it is very common to find them at home. Therefore, you should contact AAAC Wildlife Removal to ensure you and your family stay safe at all times. We will remove rats from the garden, your home, decking, or shed. Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/different-types-of-rats/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1526

A rat is one of the most common rodent types you might find near your home. However, they are often a public health concern since they can carry dangerous diseases. Read on, and find out some of the most common types you could have around your home, as well as their distinguishing features. Common Types of Rats in Your Home Rats are rodents with long tails. There are many kinds of rats, such as the Norway rat (Rattus Norvegicus), the Genus Rattus, and much more. House rats are very common, which is why understanding the basics is essential. You should worry if you have rats and mice at home. Scientific research has proven that they are rodents who usually invade your space to get food, and in many cases, they transmit diseases. Unfortunately, rat infestations can infect humans - for example, they transmitted the bubonic plague. Rattus species include many types of rats, and you could have some of those at home. This is why it's important to prevent rats from entering your home. All members of the Rattus species are native to tropical areas, and some authorities recognize up to five different species clusters. Here are some of the most common types you might find at home: Norway rat Ship rat Woodrat Marsh rice rat Distinguishing Characteristics If you want to be able to tell a black rat from a wharf rat, you need to start by identifying rats themselves and differentiating them from other rodent types. Take a look at a rat's distinguishing features. Eyes In most cases, female and male rats have dark eyes. At the same time, since the eyes are positioned on each side of their head, rats have a great vision field but a poor perception of depth. Ears Rats and mice are often known for the shape of their ears. However, a rat often has much smaller ears than other rodents, and they're one of the few spots in their body that's completely bald. Nose  The nose of a rat is extremely useful for them to detect all sorts of things in the environment. It's elongated and highly sensitive due to the VNO, a structure that's in a cigar-shaped passage in the nasal cavity floor. Mouth Rats have very unique mouths that are hard to confuse with other rodents. All wild rats have a mouth with large incisors exposed, which is a product of the cleft in the upper lip. Considering that rat's molecular biology is that of a gnawing mammal, the incisors will never going to stop growing. Tail Most rats have a long tail, which is why you can easily differentiate them from mice. It doesn't matter if they're male or female rats - their tail is extremely long compared to other rodents. Feet  The feet of a rat is small, but they also have features that help them adapt to their environment and survive. In this case, they possess fleshy pads of different sizes depending on the species, and that helps them move faster. Body A rat's body is much larger than a mouse's, so you can easily differentiate the two just due to their size. Some rats can be around nine inches long from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, whereas other rats can be as big as 19 inches long. Norway Rat (Rattus Norvegicus) or Brown Rat Norway rats are also known by many other different names, such as brown rats, common rats, wharf rats, street rats, Hanover rats, or Parisian rats. It is a brown or red rat species that are often between nine inches and 11 inches long. Its weight oscillates between 140 g and 500 g, and many scientists believe it originated in China. Even though experts believe Norway rats come from northern China, nowadays, they exist everywhere but in Antarctica, and they reside wherever human beings are (typically in urban areas). Rat models are very convenient for scientists to make different experiments. However, brown rats have also been bred for other purposes, which is why people also have pet rats that come from that species. The Norway rat's name origins are not clear, since it is obvious that the species did not originate in Norway. Lastly, their fur is often dark brown or grey, whereas the bottom part of it is frequently lighter in color. Roof Rat Also known as the ship or the black rat, the roof rat is a small rodent. Experts believe it originated in the Indian subcontinent, but you can now find it in any part of the world. Adult roof rats' body length is usually between five and seven inches long, and they weigh between 75 g to 230 g. Even though they are called 'black' rats, their fur can be brown as well with a light underbelly. Additionally, this type of rat is an omnivore, which means that they are small mammals that eat all types of food. Furthermore, they are considered generalists, so they don't have specific food preferences; thus, they can eat any food meant for cows, dogs, swine, cats, and chickens. Black rats originated in Asia, but they quickly found their way to the rest of the world in the first century AD when they arrived in Europe. After that, Europeans spread the species around, often unknowingly having them in their ships. Unlike brown rats, black ones usually stick to warm and depopulated areas instead of urban ones. They are also extremely resistant to extreme weather, and they are much more aggressive and wild than other types of rats. Common House Mouse This species belongs to the order Rodentia, and it is also a small mammal. Its physical characteristics include a long, almost-bald tail, large ears, and a big snout. It is one of the most common species you can find at home. Moreover, it is so abundant among humans. Thus, it is currently rare to find them living completely in the wild - it is much easier to come across the semi-tame populations that live near people. House mice have been domesticated, and now humans can have them as pets. Additionally, lab mice also stem from their domestication, and they are one of the most vital model organisms used in scientific research. Compared to the previously mentioned species, a house mouse is extremely small since its body length is between three and four inches and only weighs between 40 and 45 g. When these types of mice are in the wild, you can find them in different colors such as grey, black, or light brown. Nonetheless, domesticated ones are unique, and people often like them because they can be white or even champagne. All common house mice use their tail for balance. Furthermore, their tails are almost entirely bald since they act as a thermoregulation mechanism in their bodies, which is also what the hairless bits of the paws and ears do, though to a lesser extent. An essential fact about house mice's tail length is that it varies depending on the mouse's postnatal development, and more essentially, its body temperature. Consequently, mice that live in cold areas often have short tails. Rat Behavior Rats are immensely curious creatures, and they often bite things to explore their surroundings. Unfortunately, your objects, or even sleeping babies, might be the object of their exploration, which can be extremely dangerous. In many cases, rats may also bite if they feel threatened, which can happen when the person is near their nest. Even though a house rat is a domesticated species you may have at home as your pet, wild rats do not fit that category and often come from the sewers or similar places. Natural history has allowed rats to have very sharp teeth and a great sense of smell, so they can quickly detect rat predators and react to them if necessary. However, the perils of rat attacks are not limited to their ruthless bite, because they also carry disease. Rats are carriers of animal-borne diseases, also known as zoonoses. Thus, if a rat bites you, you might need different shots to ensure you don't have further complications. On many occasions, one rat bite can cause rat-bite fever. A rat can also transmit the bubonic plague through its fleas. Moreover, it could give you salmonella if their fur has bacteria and they walk through your food. Considering that rats can transmit so many different diseases, it is no wonder that many people want to ensure they never have them at home. Overall, it is an animal that could make you sick, so you should keep that in mind if you believe you might have an infestation. Get in touch with AAAC Wildlife Removal today if you need help with rat control in your garden or in your home. Originally published on https://aaacwildliferemoval.com/blog/rats/characteristics-of-a-rat/

• Brian Moss (President)
• AAAC Wildlife Removal

11/28/2022

Total words : 1472