Where Do Rats Nest Outside?
When you think of areas where rats nest, you’ll likely think of places around human homes. This includes in attics, basements, or garages. However, in the wild, rats have a variety of different areas where they may choose to build their nests. Below, learn more about where rats nest outside and additional interesting rat information!
Where Do Rats Nest Outside?
Rat nests often resemble those of birds.
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There are around 56 known species of rats in the world. As a result, different species may nest in different areas. However, overall, it has been observed that rats are secretive nesters. They will build their nests in quiet, protected areas that help them hide from predators.
Most often, when a rat is building its nest outside and not in a human area, it will choose two main locations. The most common is a burrow dug into the ground. However, they may also nest in small cavities in trees and similar areas.
What Does a Rat Nest Look Like?
While it may seem surprising, a rat’s nest will actually look quite similar to that of a bird. They have a round, cup-like shape. Often, the physical structure of the nest comprises twigs, leaves, and man-made materials. Their primary focus is on materials that are soft, so they may use cardboard, paper, or cloth.
Usually, however, you will not see the nest itself unless you are looking for it. As mentioned above, rats often form small burrows. It is inside these burrows that they will build the nest structure itself. As a result, the outside of a rat’s nest may appear just to be a hole. They may also build their nests in tree cavities.
Species Profile: Rats
There are many different species of rats, each with different habitats and therefore nesting behaviors.
©Gallinago_media/Shutterstock.com
Rats are long-tailed rodents in the order Rodentia. Within this order, they can make up various genera, depending on the exact type of rat. When you think of the average rat found throughout much of the world, you’re likely thinking of either the black rat (Rattus rattus) or the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). Whereas many rats are endemic to their native lands, these species have been introduced worldwide for the most part.
Almost all species of rats are nocturnal. In the United States, Illinois has the most rats, followed by New York and California.
The photo featured at the top of this post is © Vasiliy Koval/Shutterstock.com
