Rodents can be harmful to your health and to the structure of your house. Mice and rats will find their way into your home, cause damage, and quickly reproduce. Before you know it, you have a full-blown infestation.

Florida is no stranger to rats or rodents. There are predominantly three types of rats that call Florida home: the Norway rat, the roof rat, and the wood rat but we’ll talk about the house mouse as well since they are common everywhere although not technically a rat. Rat infestations are not only a health risk but are also not good for the building they are inhabiting.

If you are concerned that you might have a rat problem in Florida, we’ve detailed all the different rats that commonly inhabit Florida homes below. We’ve also included some common facts and tricks to getting rid of them. Read on!

common rats in florida

3 Most Common Florida Rats

1. The Norway Rat

For the most part, Norway rats are found outside. They will venture inside for food and will feed on everything from meats to grains. Unlike other Florida rats, the Norway rat likes to burrow. They are usually found in basements or crawl spaces and hide during the day. They typically only have a one-year lifespan but female Norway rats can produce over 20 offspring within a year.

  • Identifying The Norway Rat

    • The Norway Rat is a species of rodent that can grow up to 16 inches in length. They are usually brown or grey and have shorter tails than their bodies, as well as scales on the entirety of their body—including ears. Identifying them from Roof Rats becomes easier with droppings, which differ from other rats by being round-shaped and larger to boot!

2 The roof rat

Roof Rats are the most common rat in Florida. They can grow to about eight inches long, are usually black or brown, and have long tails. They are vegetarian for the most part but have been known to eat pretty much anything if it is hungry enough. Female roof rats can produce over 20 offspring in a year and have a life expectancy of up to three years. You will want to get rid of them as soon as possible once discovered.

  • Identifying The Roof Rat

    • Roof Rats are sneaky, black creatures who live in dark places. They have big ears and eyes, a long tail, and sleek fur that is usually either brown or black. Their droppings can be anywhere from 12 to 13 millimeters with pointed ends for easy identification! You might also see their grease marks along surfaces where they’ve been storing food above your ceiling…

The Wood Rat

Wood rats can get in your home and cause damage. However, they are the most uncommon rats out of the three on this list and are mostly found in Northern Florida. They can become a real issue because, in addition to eating food and leaving droppings around the house, wood rats are known to steal small items. They are roughly the same size as Norway rats.

  • Identifying The Wood Rat

    • The Wood Rat may not look like Norway Rats, but they are just as sneaky. The only difference is that their fur and tails make them easy to spot! Wood Rats range from about seven inches in length and have a look similar to that of a hamster—long, soft fur with furry tails. They are typically less than the size of Norway rats but can be seen as black or grey-brown in color.

 

 

Need Rodent Removal Boca Raton?

Stake claim over your home! Our rodent removal in Boca Raton includes ongoing deterrents and can teach you how to keep pests at bay. If you need rodent removal Boca Raton, contact us today. Florida Environmental Pest Management is the answer to all your pest control needs.