Black rat

Black rats are agile climbers that live above ground: in roofs and attics, in trees and palms, and in thick vines. They run along power lines and fences, and in the South they often nest in palm trees and citrus.

They are shyer and more wary than Norway rats, and in many places the two species divide the town between them, the black rat up high and the Norway rat below.

Black rats spread around the world with ships, and their history is tied to human trade, disease and exploration. On islands where they were introduced, they have harmed many native birds and reptiles.

In the South they are part of town and coastal wildlife, and are eaten by owls, hawks, snakes and cats.

Breeding — much of the year in warm climates
Gestation — about 21 to 23 days
Litter — usually five to ten young
Weaning — at about three to four weeks old
Maturity — at about three to four months old
Lifespan — usually a year or less in the wild

• Trimming trees and vines away from roofs and sealing roof openings keeps them out.
• Rodent poisons move up the food chain and kill owls, hawks and pets.
• Rats can carry diseases; wear gloves to clean up after them.

• Black rats are always black. Many are brown.
• Rats only live at ground level. Black rats live in roofs and trees.
• Poison is a clean solution. Poisoned rats are eaten by owls, hawks and pets.

• Norway rat
• House mouse
• Eastern woodrat