How Big Are Young Rats?
WouterDepending on the species, rats can reach sexual maturity at three to five months. Once they reach this age, they begin breeding. On average, a female can give birth to four or five young per litter. In most cases, breeding activity peaks in spring and fall, and then declines or stops altogether during the summer. This seasonal pattern is more evident in areas with harsh climates. Most rats will live for about one year, but some species can live for more than three years.
Rats and mice are both similar in appearance, although the two species have slightly different sizes. Typically, a mouse is about half the size of a rat. However, it is important to note that baby rats are smaller than baby mice. Baby rats have a slender body, larger feet, and a larger head. Rats tend to grow larger than mice as they mature.
Juvenile rats are similar to their adult counterparts. The only differences will be their size and shape. While adult mice have big ears and a long tail, baby rats have smaller ears and a more prominent head and feet. Both species have greasy hair that helps protect them from water. You can use this to identify them.
Rats can vary in size, but most species are between five and seven inches (12 centimeters) long. The largest species, known as the Bosavi woolly rat, is about the size of a cat. It weighs about 3.3 pounds (1.5 kilograms), which is the same weight as a medium-sized cat. The smallest species is the Osgood’s Vietnamese rat, which is about five to seven inches (12 to 17 centimeters) long.
