About Alberta’s Rat Control Program
The Alberta Rat Control Program has maintained Alberta's rat-free status since the 1950s by preventing rats from establishing breeding populations. Rats are designated as pests under Alberta's Agricultural Pests Act and must be eradicated when detected.
Pest management professionals play a critical role in detecting and reporting rat introductions. Early reporting allows for rapid investigation and response, helping to maintain Alberta's rat-free status.
Report a Suspect Rat
If you suspect a rat, please report:
Location of the sighting
Date observed
Photographs of the rodent, carcass, droppings, damage, or nesting material
Any additional information that may assist with identification
Email reports to Rats@gov.ab.ca
Rats are often mistaken for mice, muskrats and other native rodents. Correct identification is important to determine whether a rodent sighting needs to be reported to Alberta's Rat Control Program.
Rat Identification
Rodents Mistaken for Rats
Not every rodent that looks like a rat is a rat. Alberta's Rodents Mistaken for Rats resource provides photographs and identifying characteristics for common look-alike species, including muskrats, mice, voles, pocket gophers, ground squirrels and bushy-tailed woodrats.
Identification Resources
Rat and Mouse Comparison
A visual comparison of Norway rats, roof rats and common mouse species, including key differences in body shape, ears, nose and tail.
Alberta Rodent Identification Flow Chart A visual decision tree using characteristics such as tail type, body size, ears, nose and climbing behaviour to help distinguish rats from other Alberta rodents.
Detection, Reporting & Monitoring Rat Activity
Early detection allows the Alberta Rat Control Program to work collaboratively with the pest industry to investigate and eliminate rats before they establish breeding populations. Reports from pest management professionals and the public are essential to maintaining Alberta's rat-free status.
The Rat Reporting & Monitoring Guidelines include information on:
High-risk sites for rat introductions
Which rodent species must be reported
Detection, prevention and reporting guidance
Monitoring procedures following a confirmed rat detection
Reportable Species
Visit Alberta's Rat Control Program website for additional information and official resources.