This is why all effort should be made to keep these pests under control, and to essentially prevent a rat population from growing. And rats do make their home just about anywhere and everywhere, as they can eat just about anything made available to them. Outside of poisons, nothing seems to deter these creatures, as they can even make a meal out of animal feces. And speaking of droppings, their own pellet like feces will often provide some clue that they have indeed infested an area. These dropping, which can be found in attics, in basements, in cabinets, and garages will at least let it be known where these creatures have chosen to settle, and consequently where methods of pest control should then be employed.
Rats live less than a year, which for most animals is a relatively short life span.
But considering the fact that they do produce young approximately six times a year ensures a steady growth in the rat population. Baby rats mature quite fast, and unfortunately are able to produce their own young in a short amount of time, also less than a year. This again helps them ensure that a healthy rat population is always in place. And one reason why mankind has been able to do little to wipe these creatures off the face of the earth. And one reason that why proper method of control is vital, at least in terms of keeping the rat population to a minimum.