You might be surprised to learn that the terrible rat you see running around your yard might not be so terrible after all. Last night ABC’s Catalyst did a great segment on the different types of four-legged creatures that roam Australian backyards, and they’re not always bad.
What types of insects should be banned or welcome in your garden? Our experts tell you all…
Visits you don’t want
Black Rat (Rattus rattus)
- Don’t let the name fool you! They are rarely black, mostly brown!
- They are characterized by the size of their tail, which is usually equal to or longer than the rat’s body.
- They have a pointed nose, large ears and a slim body.
Brown Rat or Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
- They can grow quite large: up to 40 cm long
- Brown rat’s tail is shorter than their body
- They have a blunt nose, small ears and a thicker body than the black rat
Why not them welcome
- They were introduced by European settlers, so they are a threat to our native fauna and flora.
- They can transmit a variety of parasites and viruses, including roundworms and lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM).
- They are excellent climbers and can scale walls and drainpipes as well as jump great distances.
- Once inside and around your home, they can damage insulation, chew through floor joists and walls, and cause fires by chewing on electrical wiring.
Visitors welcome
Bandicoot (Perameles)
- These cute little guys are often mistaken for rats!
- They have long, pointed snouts; a compact body; they have a long, thin tail and are about the size of a rabbit.
- Her total gestation is 12.5 days!
- They are nocturnal, so they are generally only seen walking around at night (and in chocolate form in Australian supermarkets at Easter).
- As a native species, they pose no threat to our wildlife, but are often attacked by large, large birds. Foxes, snakes and wild cats
Bush Rat (Rattus fuscipes)
- These little natives are also often confused with rats!
- They are grey-brown, have round ears and a relatively short tail and grow up to 20 cm long.
- They prefer to live in the dense undergrowth of the forest, seeking refuge in short caves under tree trunks or rocks and lining their nests with grass.
How to Keep Your Unwanted Guests Away
There are a few things you can do at home to deter these unwanted visitors. For more information, visit 365 Pest Control.
