Exotic Animals - Minor Pests
Black Rat
Famiy: Muridae
Scienitfic names: Rattus rattus
Other common names: Fruit rat, Roof rat, Ship rat, Alexandrine rat
Background
The black rat is native to Asia, but has become common in many areas throughout Australia, including many locations in the Northern Territory. This species prefers warmer habitats, and is generally displaced by the brown rat in cooler locations. The black rat is highly successful in its introduced range because it has a very wide diet and it breeds prolifically.
Feeding
Black rats are omnivorous, meaning that they will eat many different types of foods, including fresh and dry fruits, seeds, leaves, bark, insects, slugs and snails, bird’s eggs, young birds, and lizards. In urban areas, black rats will also scavenge on scraps of foods, commercial and pet foods and any other bits and pieces that may be left lying around.
Breeding
In suitable climates, black rats will reproduce throughout the year. Female rats will give birth to between 5-10 young and may have up to six litters per year. The young develop rapidly and are weaned after about 20 days.
Impacts
In many locations, black rats have been associated with declines in the populations of many bird species as a result of predation on their eggs. Black rats also often prey on birds, invertebrates and lizards. They may also consume seeds that would otherwise be eaten by native animals.
What You Can Do
If you have a problem with black rats in and around your house, you might consider the following options:
- Remove access to all food sources.
- Dispose of garbage away from your house.
- Remove any animal or pet foods that might be openly available.
- Rat-proof any food storage areas or containers.
- Encourage birds of prey (who feed on rats and mice) to live and breed in open areas (such as farms) where there is a rodent problem.
