What type of rat has a painted nose?

Roof rats, known scientifically as Rattus rattus, are indeed characterized by their distinctive physical features, one of which is their often "painted" or more pronouncedly colored nose. This feature sets them apart from other rat species. Roof rats are smaller and sleeker compared to their larger counterparts, and they tend to have a pointed snout, prominent eyes, and long, slender bodies. Their fur is typically smooth and can vary in color, but the nose often has a lighter pigmentation which gives it that painted look.

In contrast, Norway rats, also known as brown rats, typically present with a more blunt snout and a stockier build, which makes their appearance quite different. Brown rats have a more uniform coloration throughout their bodies and do not exhibit the same distinctive nose characteristics. Black rats, synonymous with the term "roof rat," are structurally similar to roof rats but the term “black rat” does not specifically refer to the painted nose. The confusion can arise as both black and roof rats belong to the same species. Understanding these differences is vital for pest management and control strategies.