Description
We blame the Norwegians for the introduction of this common pest, the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus), invader of houses and carrier of disease. Actually, England's 'Black Death' is blamed largely upon the black rat, and its Norwegian cousin is regarded as less prone to carry diseases. This one looks in rude health, on dry land. But we are next to the River Wandle here in Merton, Surrey, England, and rats are doubty swimmers. They will live happily in sewers.