Charles Darwin
Black Rat (Rattus rattus)

Black Rat

Rattus rattus

About the Black Rat

The black rat (Rattus rattus), also known as the ship rat, roof rat, house rat, is a common long-tailed rodent of the genus Rattus (rats) in the subfamily Murinae. The species originated in tropical Asia and spread through the Near East in Roman times before reaching Europe by the 1st century and spreading with Europeans across the world.

Key Facts

  • Well-known species with 16,460 recorded observations.

Classification

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of the Black Rat?

The scientific name of the Black Rat is Rattus rattus.

How many Black Rat sightings have been recorded?

16,460 observations of the Black Rat have been recorded on iNaturalist.

16,460 observations on iNaturalist
Play Today's Challenge Browse All Past Animals