ExploreMammals

Black Rat

Rattus rattus

The Black Rat is a small, clever rodent with a long tail and big ears. They are often found in homes and gardens, where they look for food and shelter.

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Black Rat is a sleek, medium-sized rodent with large ears, a pointed snout, and a very long, hairless tail usually longer than its body. It typically has black or dark brown fur on its back and a lighter belly, making it distinct from the larger, stockier Norway rat.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderRodentiaFamilyMuridaeGenusRattus
Black Rat
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Black Rat

Category

Mammals

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Black rats are thought to have spread the Black Death across Europe centuries ago!

Black rats can jump impressively far, sometimes over three feet high!

Female black rats can have up to 5 litters in just one year, making many babies!

They constantly gnaw on things to keep their teeth from growing too long!

Special abilities

Ability

Acrobatic Climber

Black Rat can climb incredibly well because of their strong claws and agile bodies, helping them reach high places.

Ability

Balance Master

Black Rat has a long, flexible tail that helps them balance like a tightrope walker, preventing falls from high perches.

Ability

Whisker Navigator

Black Rat can sense changes in air currents and vibrations using their whiskers, helping them navigate perfectly in total darkness.

Ability

Ultrasonic Listener

Black Rat has incredible hearing that lets them detect ultrasonic sounds, helping them find food and avoid predators.

Measurements & details

Length
13-18 cm
Weight
0.075-0.2 kg
Lifespan
1-3 years
Top Speed
12 km/h
Litter Size
5-10
Gestation
21-23 days

Diet & Feeding

They are omnivores, eating almost anything from grains and fruits to insects and even small animals.

Primary Foods

  • Grains
  • Fruits
  • Seeds
  • Insects
  • Nuts

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

House RatRoof Rat

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Don't touch or chase wild rats; it's best to watch them from a distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Black Rat?

13-18 cm

How much does Black Rat weigh?

0.075-0.2 kg

How long does Black Rat live?

1-3 years

How fast can Black Rat move?

12 km/h

What does Black Rat eat?

They are omnivores, eating almost anything from grains and fruits to insects and even small animals.

Where is Black Rat usually found?

Urban areas

How does Black Rat hunt?

Foraging

How many babies does Black Rat usually have?

5-10

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