18 Amazing Facts About Rats That Are White

Rats that are white are often called albinos. While most of these animals are not true albinos, there are those that have a pure white coat and pink eyes. While these rats look completely different, they act like any other rat. Read on for 18 amazing facts about these animals! Let us begin with their eyes: Rats’ eyes are naturally colored pink. In order to see these colors, light must bounce off of the blood vessels within the eyes.

White rats can come from a number of genetic sources. Some of them are the result of genetic mutations. In the past, white rats were considered a good omen. Some even sacrificed them to Apollo, and the Romans often served albino rats as dinner. The mutation responsible for albinism is a genetic mutation.

Scientists have bred albino rats to help in lab experiments. There are many different strains of these rats, including the Wistar, Sprague Dawley, Long Evans, and Lewis varieties. In addition to their scientific value, albino rats are known to help fellow rodents in need.

Rats have been kept as pets since the Edo period (1603-1868). According to Kyoto University research, all albino rats are related to the same ancestor. Some rats have even been brought from Japan to the Americas and Europe. Japanese hooded rats are one example of these animals.