Brown rat evidence
Rattus norvegicus
Photographs of the signs that brown rats leave behind, each labelled with what it may indicate. Compare what you have found at your property against these references.
Entry pointsGnawed service-pipe entry
A gap around an external service pipe enlarged by gnawing — the classic route into a sub-floor void.
What this may indicate: Rats are entering the structure rather than simply visiting the garden. Proofing this point is usually more important than baiting.
- Area
- External / structure
- Stage
- Inspection
Runs and smear marksSub-floor rodent activity
Repeated travel along a void edge leaves a defined run with greasy smear marks where fur contacts the surface.
What this may indicate: An established route between harbourage and a food source, not a one-off visitor.
- Area
- Sub-floor / voids
- Stage
- Inspection
IdentificationBrown rat identification
Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) — heavy body, blunt muzzle, tail shorter than head and body combined.
What this may indicate: Confirms species. Rats and juvenile squirrels are routinely confused at a glance.
- Area
- Not specified
- Stage
- Reference