Roof Rat
Rattus rattus
Points
20
per confirmed sighting
MammalConservation status: Least ConcernUncommon to spot
mammals • Muridae
Roof Rat.
R
Rattus rattus
Category
mammals
Family
Muridae
Size
Body mass: approximately 229 g (EltonTraits).
Points
20 pts
A closer look
Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding roof rat in its natural range.
Overview
How to identify it
Habitat
EltonTraits foraging-stratum classification: ground-dwelling/terrestrial (including aquatic ground-associated coding).
Diet
EltonTraits diet profile: seeds 40%; invertebrates 30%; fruit 20%; other plant material 10%.
Behaviour
When to look
EltonTraits activity classification: nocturnal.
Where to see it
South Africa
Namibia
Zimbabwe
Zambia
Mozambique
Eswatini
Malawi
AngolaSafety and etiquette
Observe from a safe distance and never handle or feed wildlife.
Verification and sources
1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.