The rat originated in southeast Asia, it turns out, spread to northeast Asia around 200,000 years ago, rested and spread to the Middle East around 3,600 years ago. Then, the rat evolutionary tree shows, about 2,600 years ago rats reached Africa.

What attracts rats to your house?

Smells and Odors that attract rats

Odors and smells that come from pet waste, pet food, garbage containers, barbecue grills, birdfeeders, and even from unharvested fruit and nuts from plants can attract rats and mice.

What causes rats to come in your house?

“Rats enter homes for the same reasons as any other animal: food, water, and shelter,” Cox says. “Rats and other rodents are warm-blooded animals, so seeking a warm place to nest is a natural instinct.” ... “Rats can gnaw through wood, insulation, and wires to create nests, and access food inside your home,” Cox explains.