Black Rat

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Black Rat - The State of Victoria, Department of Environment and Primary Industries/McCann

Rattus rattus

Fur colour can be black, brown or white. Pointed head, long pointed ears, tail much longer than its body. Body up to 20 cm, tail up to 24 cm.

Details
Type
Mammal
Group
Animals
Placental
Other Common Names
Roof Rat, Tree Rat, European Black Rat
Biology

Black Rats are good climbers, scaling buildings and trees. They eat a range of food types and are considered pests.

Distinctive Markings

Tail longer than body length, brown fur.

Taxonomy
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Rodentia
Family
Muridae
Genus
Rattus
Species
rattus
Worldwide. Throughout Australia, including across western Victoria.

Source: Atlas of Living Australia

Only true rat in Australia with a tail longer than the head and body.

Interesting Facts
Diet

Omnivore. Eats almost anything that humans and other animals eat.

Habitat

A wide range of areas but especially near areas where humans live or work.

Native Status
Introduced