Map Showing Where Rats Live In The World

The map above shows the geographic distribution of the brown rat, also known as:

common rat, street rat, sewer rat, wharf rat, Hanover rat, Norway rat and Norwegian rat

Where can’t you find rats in the world:

Rats are highly adaptable and can be found in almost every part of the world, but there are a few places where they are notably absent or have minimal presence:

1. Antarctica: Due to the extreme cold and lack of suitable habitats, rats are not found on this continent. The harsh climate makes it impossible for them to survive. Similarly they can’t live in the Artic for the same reason.
2. Some Isolated Islands: There are a few remote islands that have managed to remain rat-free, often due to strict biosecurity measures. For example, some islands in the Pacific and Atlantic oceans have managed to prevent rats from establishing populations through vigilant control efforts.
3. Certain High-Altitude Areas: Extremely high-altitude regions, such as the upper slopes of major mountain ranges like the Himalayas or the Andes, are typically too harsh for rats to survive due to low temperatures and limited food resources.

What’s going on with Alberta?

Alberta, a province in Canada, is famously known for being largely rat-free.

The province has maintained a rat control program since the early 1950s, which is one of the most successful in the world.

Here are some key points about Alberta’s rat-free status:

1. Rat Control Program: Alberta implemented an aggressive rat control program in 1950 to prevent Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) from establishing populations. The program includes measures such as monitoring, public education, and extermination efforts.
2. Border Patrols: The province has strict measures along its borders to prevent rats from entering. Inspections and control measures are enforced to stop rats from crossing into Alberta from neighboring areas.
3. Public Cooperation: The success of the program also relies heavily on public cooperation. Residents are encouraged to report any rat sightings to authorities, and there is a strong emphasis on community involvement in maintaining the rat-free status.
4. Legislation: Alberta has specific legislation that mandates rat control and includes penalties for failing to comply with control measures.