Brown rat  (Rattus norvegicus)

The brown rat is believed to have originated from China. It reached Europe at some point in the early 18th century and was first seen in England in 1720 (4). At present it has a very wide distribution in Britain in both urban and rural areas, but is absent from a number of smaller islands. It is widespread and common in urban areas across the globe, with the exception of some tropical and subtropical areas (4).

This species is associated with farm buildings in rural areas. Refuse tips, sewer systems, hedges and field margins are also suitable habitats (4).