What do large rats look like? - briefly
Large rats usually have a body length of 30–45 cm with a tail of similar length, a sturdy, muscular build, coarse brown or black fur, and prominent incisors. Their ears are relatively large and eyes small, creating a distinctive silhouette.
What do large rats look like? - in detail
Large rats typically exceed the size of common house mice by a substantial margin, reaching lengths of 15–20 cm (head‑to‑body) and tails of equal or greater length. Body mass often falls between 300 g and 800 g, depending on species and nutrition.
- Head and facial features – Broad skull with a pronounced, flattened snout. Eyes are relatively large, dark, and positioned on the sides of the head, providing a wide field of vision. Nostrils are short and unobstructed. Whiskers (vibrissae) are long, stiff, and extend forward several centimeters, aiding tactile navigation.
- Ears – Rounded, hairless pinnae that lie close to the skull, measuring roughly 2–3 cm in diameter. In some individuals, the ears may appear slightly pinkish due to thin skin.
- Fur – Dense, coarse coat covering the entire body. Coloration varies from light brown or gray to almost black; occasional patches of white or reddish hues occur in certain populations. Guard hairs are longer and coarser, while under‑fur provides insulation.
- Tail – Scaly, hairless appendage equal to or slightly longer than the body. Surface is segmented, with a slight taper toward the tip. The tail is flexible, used for balance and thermoregulation.
- Limbs – Four sturdy legs with five clawed digits each. Front paws possess strong forelimb muscles for digging and manipulation. Hind limbs are elongated, facilitating rapid sprinting and leaping.
- Feet – Covered in sparse hair; pads are thick and calloused, allowing traction on various substrates.
Skeletal structure mirrors that of typical rodents but with reinforced vertebrae and enlarged rib cage to support greater body mass. Musculature is more developed, especially in the hindquarters, granting powerful bursts of speed up to 13 km/h. Dental formula remains consistent (incisors continuously growing, molars adapted for gnawing).
Overall, oversized rats present a robust, muscular silhouette, with proportionally larger heads, elongated tails, and a coat that may range from uniform brown to mixed coloration, distinguishing them clearly from their smaller counterparts.