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How Common Are Rats?

Updated: Jun 04, 2024
Views: 5,311
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Several studies indicate that there is roughly one rat for every person in the United States, and the ratio is similar in other nations. A study conducted in the United Kingdom in 1909 indicated a similar ratio, although the results of that study have been periodically challenged. Many of the 56 species of rats live in the wild and do not tend to thrive in areas inhabited by humans.

More facts about rats:

  • New York is considered one of the more rat-infested locations in the United States, with rats thriving in sewers, subways and other areas of the city. Several studies indicate a one-rat-per-person ratio there, although there are some differences in certain sections of the city.

  • In 1972, the U.S. Government adopted the one-rat-per-person ratio as the standard for evaluating rat populations in cities and other jurisdictions.

  • A rat's litter can include as many as 12 offspring. Rats typically are born 21 to 23 days after the mating took place.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

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Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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