The Norway Rat, also known as the brown rat, is a common pest found in urban areas. They are often referred to by a variety of alternate names such as sewer rat, city rat, wharf rat, barn rat and house rat. These rats are distinguishable by their large size and grayish-brown fur that is shaggy and coarse. They are notorious for their ability to gnaw through almost anything, including wood, plastic and even steel. They are considered to be one of the most adaptable and successful mammals on the planet and thrive in a variety of environments, including both urban and rural areas. Despite their name, Norway Rats are not native to Norway but were first discovered in China.