What does a typical rat look like? - briefly
A typical rat is a medium‑sized rodent with a sleek, coarse coat of brown to gray fur, a pointed snout, prominent whiskers, and a long, hairless tail roughly equal to its body length. Its eyes are small and black, ears are thin and rounded, and it possesses sharp incisors adapted for gnawing.
What does a typical rat look like? - in detail
A typical rat measures 20–25 cm in body length, with a tail almost equal in length, adding another 18–25 cm. The body is compact, supported by a sturdy skeletal frame that allows rapid, agile movement.
The coat consists of short, dense fur that varies from brown to grey, occasionally appearing black or reddish. Fur density is greater on the back, providing insulation, while the ventral side is lighter and less hairy, exposing pinkish skin.
The head features a blunt, triangular shape. Eyes are small, dark, and set high on the skull, granting a wide field of vision. Ears are large, rounded, and covered with fine hairs; they are highly mobile, rotating to detect sound direction. Whiskers (vibrissae) extend from the snout, measuring up to 2 cm, serving as tactile sensors.
Limbs are proportionally short, ending in sharp, clawed paws. Front paws possess dexterous digits capable of manipulating objects, while hind paws provide powerful propulsion for jumping and climbing. The tail is hairless, scaly, and flexible, used for balance and thermoregulation.
Internal anatomy includes a robust digestive system adapted for omnivorous diets, a well‑developed olfactory apparatus for scent detection, and a rapid reproductive system. These physiological traits contribute to the species’ adaptability across diverse environments.