Why do rats like napkins? - briefly
Rides are drawn to napkins because the soft fibers serve as ideal nesting material and often retain food odors that signal a potential meal. This combination of shelter and scent makes the paper product especially attractive to them.
Why do rats like napkins? - in detail
Rats are attracted to napkins for several interrelated reasons rooted in their sensory biology and survival strategies.
First, napkins often retain traces of food. Residual oils, sugars, and protein particles emit volatile compounds that stimulate a rat’s highly developed olfactory system. Even minute amounts of scent can signal a potential meal, prompting investigation and consumption.
Second, the paper’s texture provides a suitable nesting material. Rats construct nests from soft, pliable substances that insulate against temperature fluctuations and protect against predators. Napkins, being lightweight yet fibrous, meet these criteria and are readily available in human habitats.
Third, napkins occasionally contain moisture. Damp fibers retain humidity, which rats seek to maintain water balance, especially in arid environments. Moisture also enhances the diffusion of odor molecules, increasing the appeal.
Fourth, visual contrast plays a minor role. Brightly colored or patterned napkins stand out against darker surroundings, making them more noticeable during nocturnal foraging.
The combination of these factors explains the repeated observation of rodents interacting with napkins in kitchens, restaurants, and storage areas. Understanding this behavior helps inform pest‑management practices, such as promptly disposing of used napkins and minimizing food residues on paper products.