The term “Indian rat” broadly refers to several common rodent species found throughout India. These animals are widespread and adaptable, thriving in diverse environments across the subcontinent. Their pervasive presence makes them a notable part of India’s ecosystem.
Identifying Common Rat Species in India
The phrase “Indian rat” does not denote a single species but commonly refers to prevalent types such as the Black Rat (Rattus rattus) and the Bandicoot Rat, primarily the Greater Bandicoot Rat (Bandicota indica) and the Lesser Bandicoot Rat (Bandicota bengalensis). These species are frequently encountered in both urban and rural Indian settings.
The Black Rat, also known as the roof rat or house rat, measures between 16 and 22 cm in head and body length, with a tail often extending 19 cm or more. Its fur color varies from black to light brown, often with a lighter underside. These rats possess a slender body, a pointed snout, and relatively large ears. They are agile climbers, capable of navigating structures and wires with their long tails used for balance.
The Bandicoot Rats, particularly the Greater Bandicoot Rat (Bandicota indica), are considerably larger, with a body length of 19 to 33 cm and a tail of similar length, and can weigh between 0.5 to 1 kg. They have shaggy, dark gray-brown to blackish fur and a thick body. Their tails are dark, scaly, and relatively hairless, while their feet are dark with light-colored claws. Unlike the agile Black Rat, Bandicoot Rats are known for their strong burrowing capabilities, often creating extensive tunnel systems.
Life and Habits
Common rat species in India exhibit diverse behaviors and occupy a wide range of habitats. They thrive in close proximity to humans, inhabiting urban areas like houses, sewers, and warehouses, as well as agricultural fields and natural environments. This allows them to exploit resources across varied settings.
These rats are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders, consuming a broad spectrum of food sources. Their diet includes grains, fruits, vegetables, and household refuse. They can also consume small invertebrates. This contributes to their success in diverse environments.
Rats are primarily nocturnal, with their activity peaking after sunset. They often live in social groups or colonies, constructing burrows or nests for shelter and rearing their young. The Greater Bandicoot Rat, for instance, builds extensive burrow systems that can house multiple individuals. Their rapid reproductive rate is a significant factor in their high population numbers. Female rats can produce multiple litters per year, with each litter containing a considerable number of pups, ranging from 6 to 12 for Black Rats and 8 to 14 for Greater Bandicoot Rats.
Rats in Human Environments
Rats interact significantly with human environments, leading to various impacts on agriculture, infrastructure, and public health. In agricultural settings, these rodents are responsible for damaging crops both before and after harvest, and they contaminate stored food. This activity results in substantial economic losses, with estimates suggesting that rodents cause at least US$5 billion in annual losses to stored food and seed grain in India. They particularly favor crops like maize and paddy rice, which can experience significant damage.
Beyond agriculture, rats cause property damage by gnawing on various materials. They chew through structures, electrical wires, and other household items, which can lead to structural weakening and potential hazards like fires. Their burrowing habits can also undermine foundations and damage sewage and water pipelines.
These rat species can transmit various pathogens to humans and livestock. They carry bacteria and viruses that pose health risks. Contact with rat urine, droppings, or saliva, or even indirectly through contaminated water or food, can facilitate this transmission.