What does a black rat eat? - briefly
Black rats are omnivores that feed on grains, fruits, seeds, insects, carrion, and discarded human food, while also taking small vertebrates and eggs when they can. Their diet varies with habitat, ranging from plant material in fields to waste in urban settings.
What does a black rat eat? - in detail
The black rat (Rattus rattus) is an omnivore with a highly adaptable feeding repertoire. In natural habitats it consumes a range of plant and animal matter, selecting items that provide carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- Grains and seeds (wheat, barley, rice, millet)
- Fruits and berries (apples, grapes, figs, wild berries)
- Nuts and legumes (almonds, peanuts, beans)
- Invertebrates (beetles, larvae, earthworms)
- Small vertebrates and carrion (frogs, dead birds, fish)
In urban environments the diet expands to include human-generated resources. Typical items are:
- Food waste from households and restaurants
- Processed snacks and bread crumbs
- Pet food left unattended
- Garbage and compost material
Seasonal shifts influence food selection. During summer, fruit and insect abundance increases; in winter, reliance on stored grains and scavenged waste grows. Water intake is met through moist foods and, when necessary, standing water sources.
Nutritional balance is maintained by alternating protein-rich prey with carbohydrate-dense plant material. This flexibility enables the species to thrive in diverse ecosystems and contributes to its reputation as a prolific commensal.