Rats are common in urban and rural environments, seeking shelter and resources near human activity. Many rat species are proficient burrowers, creating complex tunnel systems beneath the surface. This behavior is fundamental to their survival.
Rat Burrowing Confirmed
Rats are skilled at digging, with burrowing serving as a primary means of establishing living spaces. The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) is known for its extensive burrowing capabilities. This species, often called a “sewer rat” or “brown rat,” creates elaborate underground networks. While other rodents may also burrow, Norway rats are distinct in the scale and complexity of their subterranean habitats.
Reasons for Burrowing
Rats burrow for survival and reproduction. Tunnels provide shelter from predators and harsh weather. Burrows also serve as safe nesting sites for raising young. Additionally, rats utilize these subterranean spaces for storing food and as escape routes from danger above ground.
Typical Burrow Characteristics
A typical rat burrow appears as a small, often round or slightly oval, hole in the ground, usually measuring between 2 to 4 inches in diameter. The edges of active burrow entrances often appear smooth and compacted due to frequent use by the rats. Beneath the surface, these burrows can extend into complex networks of tunnels and chambers, reaching depths of 12 to 18 inches, though they can go as deep as 4 feet if located near building foundations. These systems typically include a main entry hole and one or more less obvious “bolt holes” or escape exits.
Common Burrow Locations
Rats strategically choose burrow locations that offer concealment, proximity to resources, and structural support. Common places to find rat burrows include along the foundations of buildings, under concrete slabs, and beneath dense vegetation like bushes or overgrown shrubs. They also frequently establish burrows near compost piles, woodpiles, and areas with readily available food waste or water sources. These locations provide both protection from predators and easy access to sustenance.
Signs of Active Burrows
Identifying an active rat burrow involves looking for several specific indicators. Freshly excavated dirt often forms a fan-shaped pile around the entrance of an active hole. The burrow opening itself will typically be clear of debris and cobwebs, indicating regular use. Other signs of activity include the presence of rat droppings or urine trails nearby, gnaw marks on surrounding objects, and visible runways—worn-down paths in the grass or greasy marks along walls—leading to and from the burrow entrance. To check if a burrow is active, one simple method is to lightly stuff the opening with paper or soil; if the material is disturbed or removed within a day or two, the burrow is likely in use.