Yes, rats have been known to bite sleeping humans. According to available information, this is especially true for children and infants.
Rat Bites: A Concern for Sleeping Individuals
Rats, particularly wild rats, generally avoid human contact. However, they may bite in certain situations:
- When handled: Rats unaccustomed to human interaction will bite if they are picked up or handled.
- During feeding attempts: Attempting to hand-feed a wild rat can result in a bite.
- While foraging for food: Nocturnal rats may bite sleeping individuals, especially children and infants, on exposed body parts like fingers, hands, toes, and the face when searching for food.
Why Sleeping People are Vulnerable
Sleeping individuals, especially vulnerable populations like infants and children, are at risk of rat bites because:
- They are unaware of the rat's presence.
- They cannot defend themselves.
- Exposed skin provides easy access for the rat.
