Where Do Rats Live?

Typically, rats prefer to live outside where they can find food, water, and safety from predators. Whether outdoors or in, however, these pests are highly adaptable and can thrive in a lot of different environments. Knowing about where they prefer to hide can help you spot and manage infestations early on. 

Depending on what type of rodent you’re dealing with, the ideal habitat may be different. Each species has unique behaviors and is drawn to certain nesting sites:

• Roof rats are known for climbing and are often found in treetops or attics. 
• Norway rats prefer to burrow, so they usually hide beneath foundations. 
• House and deer mice are small and like to stay away from human activity if possible. 

Common Rat Nesting Sites

When it comes to indoor environments, rodents tend to prefer warm, sheltered areas that are both close to food and far from humans. For that reason, they’re often drawn to a few common places like attics, storage areas, basements, and wall voids. On the other hand, rats in the wilderness may find all sorts of nesting sites such as:

• Dense Vegetation: Tall grasses and shrubs provide excellent cover for rats. These areas are used for hiding, foraging for food, and constructing nests, keeping them out of sight from predators and humans.
• Gardens and Fields: Rats are attracted to gardens and fields that supply ample food and shelter in the form of mulch, vegetation, and garden waste. These settings cater to their need for concealment and constant access to food.
• Underground Burrows: Some rats opt to dig and establish intricate burrow systems. These are typically situated under piles of debris, dense vegetation, or even beneath structures, allowing them to remain concealed and safeguarded from the elements and predators.
• Wood Piles and Junkyards: These spots offer rats a secluded and protected environment. The clutter and debris provide abundant materials for nest-building, helping them stay hidden.

Where Do Mice Live?

Like rats, mice are versatile and resourceful creatures that can adapt to a variety of environments. They commonly seek out warm, hidden spots to build their nests. Inside homes, mice often settle in:

• Wall cavities
• Attics
• Basements
• Behind appliances

These spots allow them to stay out of sight while having easy access to food sources. Outdoors, mice tend to nest in sheltered areas such as thick vegetation, under rocks, in tree hollows, and within piles of leaves or wood. 

Struggling to locate and eliminate a rodent nest on your own? Rodent infestations can be tricky to identify and even harder to control without expert assistance. Ja-Roy’s rodent control team is here to help you find and address those hidden nests quickly and effectively. To learn more or get started, call us today.