A pack rat is a small rodent that is known for its habit of gathering and hoarding large amounts of material possessions often to the point where its nest becomes excessively cluttered. Due to their tendencies pack rats are also known as hoarders.
While the term “pack rat” is most often used in North America the species of rodent to which it refers (Rattus norvegicus) is actually native to Europe and Asia. However the name is derived from the animal’s habit of carrying its belongings with it when moving to a new location much like a pack animal.
Pack rats are relatively small rodents measuring just 10-12 inches in length (including the tail). They have dull brown fur and are somewhat shaggy in appearance. Their tails are long and rat-like and they have pointy noses.
Pack rats are known for their love of hoarding and will often collect anything they can get their hands on. This includes food garbage shiny objects and even small animals. In some cases pack rats have been known to hoard so much material that their nests become dangerously cluttered.
If you think you may have a pack rat problem there are a few things you can look for:
-Excessively cluttered nests
-Items that are no longer useful or needed
-A strong musky odor
If you suspect you have a pack rat infestation the best course of action is to contact a professional exterminator.
What does a pack rat look like?
Answer 1: Pack rats are generally small to medium-sized rodents with long tails.
They have thick fur which can be various colors but they are often brown or gray.
