Rats are present in Ohio, found across diverse environments from urban centers to rural settings. Their presence is often linked to human activity, as they rely on human habitats for food, water, and shelter. Understanding the specific types of rats, their preferred living conditions, and what attracts them can aid in managing their populations.
Rat Species in Ohio
The most common rat species in Ohio is the Norway rat, also known as the brown rat or sewer rat. These robust, heavy-bodied rodents typically measure 16 to 18 inches long, including their 7-inch tail, which is notably shorter than their body. Norway rats have coarse, shaggy brown fur with scattered black hairs and weigh between 7 and 18 ounces. They possess poor eyesight but have a keen sense of smell, touch, and hearing.
Another species, the roof rat, also known as the black rat or ship rat, is less common in Ohio. Roof rats are more slender, typically 6 to 8 inches in body length, with a tail longer than their head and body combined, often 7 to 10 inches. Their fur is smoother, ranging from grayish to dark gray or black. Unlike Norway rats, roof rats prefer elevated nesting sites like attics, trees, and rafters, using their agility to climb.
Common Habitats and Attractants
Rats in Ohio thrive in diverse environments, including urban, suburban, and rural areas, often near human populations. Norway rats are frequently found in ground-level locations such as sewers, basements, crawl spaces, and burrows under foundations, sidewalks, or decks. Conversely, roof rats, when present, prefer higher locations like attics, walls, trees, and dense vegetation.
Rats are drawn to areas that provide easy access to food, water, and shelter. Common food sources include household garbage, pet food, bird seed, and fallen fruits or vegetables from gardens. They are opportunistic omnivores, consuming a wide range of items, including meat, fish, nuts, and grains. Water sources like leaky pipes, standing water, or pet water bowls also attract them. Shelter is often found in cluttered areas, woodpiles, overgrown shrubs, and within structures like garages, sheds, and warehouses.
Managing Rat Populations
Effective rat management involves reducing access to their primary needs: food, water, and shelter. Sanitation practices include storing all food, including pet food, in sealed, airtight containers and regularly cleaning up spills and crumbs. Outdoor garbage cans should have tightly fitting lids and be emptied frequently to prevent rats from accessing discarded food. Regularly removing pet waste also eliminates a potential food source.
Exclusion methods prevent rats from entering structures. Inspecting and sealing any cracks or holes in foundations, walls, and around pipes or vents with materials like steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh can block entry points. Trimming overgrown vegetation, removing debris, and storing woodpiles away from buildings also reduces hiding spots and pathways for rats. For persistent or large infestations, consulting a professional pest control service is advised.