Rat droppings are cylindrical and about half an inch long, sometimes up to one inch, and are often found in groups. Fresh rat droppings look dark and shiny, while older rat droppings are gray and dustier. Rat droppings are usually light brown to yellow, but this can vary depending on the animals diet. They can be easily mistaken for some food items. Rat droppings are typically larger than mouse droppings, which are usually spindle-shaped with pointed ends. Rat droppings are usually shiny black and 1/2 - 3/4 of an inch long.