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What
One of the rat species represented by the national Rats target.
The Hit List
Verified public Target identity
land · fauna
Ship rat
Rattus rattus
Also known as Black rat
Child of Rats
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Visual markers
- A slender rat with a tail longer than its head-and-body length.
- Large ears that reach over the eye when gently pressed forward on a specimen.
- Tail-to-body proportion is the most useful visible comparison with Norway rat and kiore.
Why
One of the rat species represented by the national Rats target.
Where
Not established in this record.
Identification notes
- Norway rat: A Norway rat is heavier-bodied with a thicker tail shorter than its head-and-body length and smaller ears. Compare dossier.
- Kiore: Kiore are smaller and very similar; photographs alone may not support a reliable distinction. Compare dossier.
Keep in mind: Colour is variable and is not a reliable discriminator. Confirm uncertain records using measurements or expert examination.
Established knowledge
For consequential field decisions, consider the knowledge state and cited sources for each claim, and consult authoritative guidance where appropriate. Information and reliance terms
38% reference coverage — not scientific certainty or ecological progress
- NZ status
- Ecological impact
- Sources
Open knowledge
These are parts of the public picture that could become clearer with better evidence.
- Identification
- Distribution
- Visual clues
- Regional intelligence
- Confusion species
Sources & credits
- DOC — Predator Free 2050authoritative · National target scope
- DOC — animal pestsauthoritative · Threat context
- Rats: animal pestsDepartment of Conservation · Practical comparison of ship rats, Norway rats and kiore
- A guide to the identification and collection of New Zealand rodentsDepartment of Conservation · Detailed diagnostic characters and identification limitations
Field observations
Field observations connect sightings and signs with a place, time and source. They can support evidence after review. This dossier does not accept public submissions.
No field observations are published for this Target.
Commentary
Local experience, corrections and context help explain the public record. Commentary is not verified knowledge. This dossier does not accept public comments.
No commentary is published for this Target.
Questions and Missions
What can the sources tell us, and what still needs evidence? Explore dossier discoveries and research questions to understand this Target. Research leads identify knowledge gaps; they are not field assignments.
Explore Missions and Hunt mode for Ship rat- How can ship rats be reliably distinguished from other rats?Research question · evidence needed
Shout Out
Shout Out
Share this record so others can explore the same question, place or ecological work. The link keeps its context and sources together.
Ship rat — The Hit List — NZ Ex Games
Canonical link
/hit-list/rat-ship