They.have rather poor vision and are color blind, but their senses of hearing, smell, touch, arid taste are keenly developed. Touch is via their vibrissae or long whiskers. They are good runners, climbers, jumpers, and swimmers. Fortunately, Prague has not been found in rats in the United States for many years. Another problem is tropical rat mite dermatitis which is caused by these mites when they feed on humans.
Rats are primarily nocturnal in habit and they are cautious.
Although they constantly explore their surroundings, they shy away from new objects and changes. The burrow will have at least 1 entrance hole and at least 1 bolthole or emergency exit which is often hidden under grass, debris, etc. These are social animals and often many burrows will be located within a given area. Indoors, Norway rats usually nest in basements and the lower portions of buildings in piles of debris or merchandise as long as it is not disturbed. Although Norway rats prefer the ground or lower levels of buildings and sewers, on occasion they may be found in attics, on roofs, and in other high places.