Norway Rats

Norway rats are large brown burrowing rats that nest low — in crawl spaces, under sheds, and along foundations. Common near Whidbey and Fidalgo waterfronts and older neighborhoods, they gnaw structural materials and contaminate insulation and stored food.

How to identify Norway rats

Heavy-bodied, 7 to 10 inches plus a shorter, scaly tail, with brown fur, small ears, and a blunt nose. Droppings are large and capsule-shaped.

Behavior & season on Whidbey & Fidalgo

They burrow in soil and nest in the lowest available space, staying active year-round in our mild winters. They follow established runways along walls and forage within a small radius of the nest.

Why Norway rats are a problem

They gnaw wiring, pipes, and framing, pull apart insulation for nesting, and contaminate crawl spaces with urine and droppings that can carry disease. A breeding population multiplies quickly.

Signs of Norway rats activity

• Large capsule-shaped droppings in the crawl space
• Burrows along the foundation or under sheds
• Gnaw marks on wood, wire, and pipes
• Greasy rub marks along runways
• Torn or flattened insulation

How Salty Dog treats Norway rats

We inspect the crawl space and exterior, remove the rodents, seal every entry point, and can restore contaminated insulation so the space is protected long term. Learn more about our Rodent Control service, or browse the full Pest Library.

Frequently asked questions

How are Norway rats getting into my crawl space?

Usually through foundation gaps, vent damage, utility penetrations, or a failing crawl-space door. Exclusion sealing is the permanent fix.

Do I need to replace my insulation?

If rodents have contaminated or matted it, restoration removes the health hazard and the odor trail that draws more rodents in.

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