Habitat |
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Restricted in modern times in the UK to only a few areas. When found in buildings, the Black rat is most often sighted on roofs. Pipes, cables and beams offer means of distribution to this agile mammal which can jump over a meter in height from standing start.
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Biology |
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Excellent senses of touch, taste, smell and hearing. Poor vision. Agile, and active climber. Omnivorous, with a preference for fruit, nuts, grains and vegetables. Usually eats 25 - 28g per day. Historically associated with shipping, this species is decreasingly prominent in the UK.
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Pest Status |
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Greatly decreased in western Europe in modern times. This is most likely due to competition from increasing populations of R. norvegicus which has been increasing it's distribution over the same period.
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Control |
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When necessary, means of control are similar to those for R. norvegicus
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