What is a group of rats called? - briefly
The collective noun for rats is a mischief. In some contexts the group may also be referred to as a pack or a colony.
What is a group of rats called? - in detail
A collection of rats is commonly identified by the collective noun “pack.” In zoological literature the term “colony” is also frequent, especially when referring to a breeding population that occupies a shared nest or burrow system. The word “horde” appears in informal contexts to describe a large, restless assembly, while “swarm” is occasionally used when the animals move en masse, such as during a migration or an infestation.
- Pack – standard term for a group observed moving together, often used by wildlife biologists.
- Colony – denotes a permanent or semi‑permanent settlement, typically involving multiple families.
- Horde – informal, emphasizes size and perceived chaos.
- Swarm – used when rats travel in great numbers, usually in reference to pest outbreaks.
Etymology: “Pack” derives from Old English pæc (“bundle, group”), adapted to animal groupings. “Colony” originates from Latin colonia (“settlement”), reflecting the organized nature of rat communities. “Horde” comes from Turkic languages, historically describing nomadic groups, and “swarm” from Old English swearm (“a great number of insects”).
In scientific reports, “colony” is preferred for laboratory rat populations, where controlled breeding and housing conditions are described. Field observations of urban rats often employ “pack” to convey the social structure of foraging groups. The choice of term depends on context: ecological studies favor “colony,” pest management literature may use “horde” or “swarm,” and general descriptions default to “pack.”
Understanding the correct collective noun aids precise communication in research papers, wildlife management plans, and public health advisories concerning rodent control.