Rat

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A rat fursona. Art by JSharp.

Rats are a species of long-tailed rodents.

Overview[edit]

Many members of other rodent families, such as pouch rats and pack rats, are called "rats" due to similar appearance, but are not true rats and do not belong to the genus Rattus.[1]

The best-known rat species are the Black rat (Rattus rattus) and the Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). Both are generally known as the Old World rats or true rats and originated in Asia.[2]

The common species can survive naturally, although they are often found living with and near humans. While it is possible for modern wild rats to carry diseases, it's not very common. Those living in good environments are typically healthy and robust animals, as opposed to ones living in cities (who may have poor diets and fall prey to parasites). The normal lifespan of a rat ranges from two to five years, and is typically three years. Rats can be found on every continent, apart from Antarctica.

Rats in mainstream culture/religion[edit]

Rats and furry[edit]

Rats are an averagely popular species choice for both original characters and fursonas.

Several fictional species use rats as a base both for appearance and behavior. Examples include Burmecians and Cleyrans from Final Fantasy IX, and Ratonga from EverQuest II. Each is moderately prevalent in fan works (both by furry artists and non-furry fans).

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. Report: Rattus - Integrated Taxonomic Information System
  2. Report: Rattus norvegicus - Integrated Taxonomic Information System
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