Rats in NJ can cause serious problems for commercial property owners. Norway rats and roof rats are among the more common rodent species in the state. Learning more about these rats, including what they look like, can help you know when to get professional NJ pest control.

Roof Rats

Roof rats are smaller than Norway rats, measuring up to 18 inches long from head to tail when fully grown. These rats have darker coloring and smoother fur with a long, black tail and pointed muzzle. These rats usually stay higher up, such as on rooftops or trees, compared to Norway rats. They also prefer warmer climates.

Norway Rats

Norway rats are large, with a body length that measures up to ten inches long, not including their tail. These rats have a bulkier body than roof rats, along with a shorter tail, blunt muzzle, rougher coat and smaller eyes. They also have a brownish coloring that’s lighter than roof rats’ coloring. Norway rats tend to stay lower down where they search for food.

Both rats can spread disease, chew electrical wiring, contaminate food and cause other problems for building owners. Prompt removal is important when you have an infestation of either of these rodents.

If you have Norway or roof rats in your building, contact Stern Environmental right away. Our NJ pest control experts can get rid of these rodents to prevent damage and disease.