Rat

Rat

Rats are various medium-sized, long-tailed rodents. Species of rats are found throughout the order Rodentia, but stereotypical rats are found in the genus Rattus. Other rat genera include Neotoma (pack rats), Bandicota (bandicoot rats) and others.

Characteristics

Rats are typically distinguished from mice by their size. Generally, when someone discovers a large muroid rodent, its common name includes the term rat, while if it is smaller, its name includes the term mouse. The common terms rat and mouse are not taxonomically specific.

Species and description

The best-known rat species are the black rat (Rattus rattus) and the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). The group is generally known as the Old World rats or true rats, and originated in Asia. Rats are bigger than most Old World mice, which are their relatives, but seldom weigh over 500 grams (1.1 lb) in the wild.

Behavior

Rats are known to be highly intelligent and capable of learning complex tasks. Not only can they learn to navigate mazes, but they can also recognize and remember individuals and exhibit social behavior.

In culture

Rats have a significant impact on society due to their role in spreading diseases. They are often seen as pests, but they have also been kept as pets and even revered in some cultures.

See also

• Rodent
• Mouse
• Black rat
• Brown rat

Rat Resources
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