Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Alberta has maintained a “rat-free status” since 1937 because there are no residential populations of Norway or Roof rats in the province. Any rat infestations are controlled and eradicated. In 2004 the Alberta Research Council determined that Alberta saved $42.2 million/year in economic and environmental damages from invasive rats by maintaining a Provincial Rat Control Program that costs about $300,000 in toxicants and labour each year.
Norway rats pose a significant threat as they reproduce rapidly (in one year a female can have up to 15,000 offspring), can decimate food stores in homes, business or on farms in rapid time and can carry diseases, parasites and pathogens which can directly and indirectly affect human and livestock health.
In Alberta, muskrats, pocket gophers and richardson ground squirrels are commonly mistaken for rats.
All rat sighting should be reported. If you think you see a rat please safely take a picture, note the location and send the information to:
Email: 310rats@gov.ab.ca
Phone: 310-FARM (3276) (your call will then be directed to the correct contact for the Rat Control Program)