What do rats do on a ship? - briefly
Rats aboard vessels forage for stored provisions, gnaw insulation, wiring, and structural components, and can transmit pathogens to crew members. Their presence compromises sanitation and may lead to costly repairs.
What do rats do on a ship? - in detail
Rats board vessels in search of food, shelter, and safety from predators. Their presence is documented on merchant ships, naval vessels, and fishing boats throughout history.
Typical activities include:
- Foraging on stored provisions such as grain, dried meat, and canned goods; consumption often leaves behind gnawed packaging and contaminated remnants.
- Scavenging waste material in galley pits, bilges, and deck‑side trash receptacles; excrement and urine create unsanitary conditions.
- Nesting in crevices, insulation, and cargo holds; nests consist of shredded fabric, rope, and wood shavings.
- Gnawing on ropes, canvas, wooden fittings, and synthetic cables; damage can impair rigging, sail operation, and electrical systems.
- Transporting pathogens; rats serve as vectors for bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Leptospira) and parasites that threaten crew health.
Behavior patterns align with ship routines. Nighttime activity rises as crew lights dim, prompting rats to explore decks and cargo areas. Seasonal migrations increase infestations when vessels travel through ports with abundant rodent populations.
Crew response typically involves pest‑control protocols: regular inspection of storage compartments, sealing of entry points, deployment of snap traps or electronic devices, and, when necessary, use of rodenticides under strict safety guidelines. Maintaining cleanliness, securing food supplies, and monitoring waste disposal reduce the likelihood of infestation and mitigate the economic and health risks associated with rodent activity aboard sea vessels.