Which feature makes Norway Rats likely to cause problems in buildings?

Norway rats are known for their strong gnawing abilities, which is a significant reason they can cause problems in buildings. Their incisors continuously grow, requiring them to gnaw on various materials to wear them down. This behavior allows them to chew through wood, plastic, and even some metals, which can lead to structural damage, compromised insulation, and potential access points for other pests. Their ability to create entrances into a building and disrupt components such as wiring or plumbing is particularly problematic for property owners and pest control professionals.

In contrast, options like being very small and lightweight are inaccurate descriptors; Norway rats are notably larger than many other rodent species, which helps them navigate and thrive in a variety of environments. The claim that they prefer to live outdoors does not capture their adaptability as they are equally comfortable in urban settings, often choosing buildings as their primary habitat. Lastly, the idea that they are excellent flyers is misleading as Norway rats cannot fly, which limits their mobility to climbing and jumping rather than aerial movement.