What Family Does a Rat Belong To?
WouterRats are one of the most common pests found worldwide. These critters come in many varieties and belong to several different families. Some are omnivorous while others specialize in a particular area. For example, some species live in caves and other underground spaces. Others are specialized in feeding on a specific food, like fish.
Although different species of rats are closely related, they do not all have the same traits. The term rat is typically used for medium-sized rodents that have long tails. For example, cotton rats and Norway rats have similar appearances, but they are not actually related. The common name rat is applied to 56 different species of rodents that have the same general appearance.
Some rat species can carry diseases that can be dangerous to humans. These diseases include salmonella, typhus, and bubonic plague. Luckily, there are modern antibiotics that can treat these diseases. Regardless of whether a rat is considered a pest or a beneficial member of the ecosystem, its presence has a detrimental impact on human health.
There are several common types of pet rats. Some may have different colors and markings, while others may have no fur at all. Some may also have short tails, low-set ears, or long tails. A rat’s traits are important for proper classification, and it is necessary to understand how each type of rat differs from the other.
