The two rats are distinguished from each other by body size, shape of nose and ears, length of tail, lifestyle habits, and the shape of droppings. However, despite their common names, surprisingly, colour is not a useful distinguishing feature.

The Black Rat, although now extremely rare in the UK, is the smaller of the two, has larger ears, a more pointed nose, a tail which is longer than its body, and movement similar to that of a squirrel.

The Brown rat is the most common of the two rats within the UK and breeds throughout the year. Rats have a gestation period of just 21 days, and the young rat reaches sexual maturity at 8-12 weeks, they are also able to have in the region of 6 litters per year with a litter size of up to eight baby rats.

Treatment & Prevention

The correct treatment against rats is vitally important in professional control. Following a survey by trained and qualified surveyor to identify location, runs (areas they frequent), food and water sources, entry points and likely size of infestation, a baiting programme will commence. Specially formulated rodenticides will be strategically placed within specifically designed baiting stations to entice them to feed in areas they perceive to be safe locations.

Occasionally gassing is the preferred solution, and as with all poisons, fumigants are subject to numerous health & safety guidelines and legislation. As a last resort or in particularly sensitive situations, professional application of break-back traps and sticky boards are required to reduce or eliminate the infestation.

In all instances, a minimum of 3 treatments is required, and in many domestic or commercial premises 8-12 visits per annum are recommended, together with proofing measures and external monitor baits, to eradicate activity and prevent further infestation.

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