What type of environment does the roof rat prefer?

The roof rat, also known as the black rat or ship rat, typically prefers urban areas as its favored environment. These rodents thrive in environments where food, water, and shelter are readily available, which is commonly found in urban settings due to human activity. Roof rats are agile climbers and can easily navigate through trees, shrubs, and buildings, making cities an ideal habitat for them. They are often found in attics, roof spaces, and other high locations within structures where they can find nesting sites and access to food sources.

While coastal states might support various additional populations of rodents due to favorable climates and abundant food, it is the urban environments that provide the specific resources roof rats require. Their adaptability allows them to exploit the habitats created by human development, which enhances their survival and reproduction rates in these densely populated areas.