Where a Rat Lives is Called a Core Home Range
WouterThere are different types of rats, and where they live can differ based on the species. Some prefer to live in the wild while others prefer the comfort of human habitats. While inside your home, rats will often look for places to burrow for shelter. Some rats burrow into the ground, while others live in old logs.
House rats live in homes, buildings, and attics. These rodents can live for two to three years. The species is widely distributed throughout the world, although some have been introduced to cold climates such as Antarctica. In addition to their habitat, house rats also live near rivers and drain pipes.
The extent of a rat’s home range can vary significantly, but most of its use occurs within a small fraction of its home range. This region is referred to as the rat’s “core home range”, and it comprises about 50% of the space that the animal uses. This area can be as small as 11% of the rat’s entire home range, and as large as 31% for the black rat.
If a rat enters your house, you should be aware that it can cause a severe case of food poisoning. Since they like to eat garbage, feces, and other items in your kitchen, the bacteria they carry on their bodies can contaminate the food you eat. Salmonella can be fatal, so it is best to avoid rat-infested foods and keep an eye out for rats in your home. Additionally, rats can also transmit leptospirosis, a bacterial disease. This disease can cause fever, muscle aches, and can even lead to meningitis.
