Body is slender, 6-8 inches long; tail is longer then the head and body which meaures upto 7-10 inches long. Ears are large and will cover the eyes if bent forward. Eyes are large and prominent.
These can be sexually active and capable of mating at 3 months of age. Female rats can be pregnant with new litter and still lactate to feed their young. However the gestation period may be slightly longer. Rats average 3-7 litters per year. After giving birth rats are capable of being in heat again in 24-48 hours. Lifespan is approx 1 year.
Worldwide
Rodents spread a wide variety of serious diseases such as Salmonellosis, Plague, Laptospirosis, Hantaviruses and rickettsial pox. They also carry fleas and other parisites to the building. They consume and contaminate a significant percentage of world food supply every year besides causing extensive economic damage by gnawing on structures and wiring, causing fires.