Are Rats and Mice the Same?

You may be wondering if rats and mice are the same, but there are some key differences between the two. Both rats and mice fall under the order Rodentia and are small animals. They have the same basic body structure, with the exception that rats are smaller than mice. Rats and mice live in similar places, although their homes tend to be warmer and more secluded.

The similarities between mice and rats are largely down to convergent evolution. Before genetic testing, most animals were classified based on anatomical similarity. Eventually, the names of animals were changed to species in order to distinguish between them. Before genetics became available, rats and mice were often confused with each other.

Rats are more dangerous than mice and are capable of causing more damage. They can chew through metals and materials that mice can’t. They are particularly destructive in buildings, as they can gnaw through insulation, brick, wire mesh, and concrete. They can also chew through electrical wires, posing a fire hazard.

Rats and mice share many characteristics, including size and color. While they are both rodents, rats are much larger and have more distinct features. Their tails are also different in size. Rats have a thick, scaly tail while mice have long, hairless tails.