The Norway Rat, or brown rat, is a non-native species introduced from Asia that has spread to every continent except Antarctica via human transport. It is an omnivore with exceptional burrowing and swimming ability that thrives in urban environments and threatens native wildlife on islands. Despite being a major pest, it is widely used in biomedical research and has contributed enormously to scientific knowledge.
Best time to see a Norway Rat
The best time to see a Norway Rat is February–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 6,887 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Norway Rat? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Norway Rat sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Norway Rat?
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