What Do We Need Rats For?
WouterRats are useful for a number of things. In the past, they were used to transport fleas and bubonic plague across the world. This disease killed millions of people in Europe. The next reason we need rats is to control pests. Rats are known for chewing and eating electrical wires. They also have a variety of diseases that can harm humans.
Rats are hardy animals that can survive on less than an ounce of food a day. In the past, humans have tried poisons to get rid of rats, but rats have proven to be a resilient species. In most cases, habitat changes will prevent conflicts between humans and rats. Rats eat almost anything we eat and will leave behind their feces and urine.
Rats are also commonly used for psychology experiments. Because they have a larger brain and are less timid than mice, rats can mimic some of the behaviours of humans. Some researchers are even using rats to study cocaine addiction. Researchers are finding that some people are more susceptible to addiction than others and that it’s harder for them to recover.
Rats can survive up to a month without water. They get water from their food, but they also find water in drains, pet dishes, and condensation from pipes and walls. They also take shelter under a wall or in an area of the house that is rarely used. Rats also like to nest inside appliances.
