Rat

Description

Rats are small rodents that live free or are bred on farms. Their front legs are shorter than the rear ones, which helps them pick up food and makes them very agile when running. Their body is very flexible and can easily change shape, which is why they can fit through holes that are much smaller than their actual size.

Behaviour

They are sociable and live in colonies, although they search for food on their own. They are shy and will run to hide and find shelter the second they notice any danger. They are able to freeze to the spot and make no noise whatsoever when they notice any danger nearby. Each litter can contain 15-25 pups after 25 days of gestation; they have no specific mating season, making them a very prolific species. 

Interesting facts

They are bred in captivity to feed other types of animals such as reptiles or birds of prey. They are also popular as pets. In Europe, they are considered a true pest. Their capacity to adapt means they are able to live almost anywhere, such as sewers, and feed from what they find in dustbins, making them a severe problem in cities or rural populations.