Rats can be an extremely annoying presence in homes, businesses and entire neighborhoods alike. Their constant chewing can damage property while spreading disease to humans as well as diminishing quality of life.
Don’t let rats ruin your day; arming yourself with knowledge can help stop them from entering your home and disrupting its inhabitants. Here are a few facts you should know about rats:
Myth 1: Rats are smart
Rats may often be perceived as intelligent rodents, but it’s important to keep in mind that their intelligence lies more in taste and touch than sight and smell. While their vision may be limited and smell impaired, their exceptional taste and touch sense allows them to find food quickly while navigating their environment successfully.
Animals of this kind generally tend not to attack people without provocation; although they can get into battles among themselves over territory and food supplies, they do not pose a danger to people or property.
Though they appear large, hedgehogs usually only grow to about one foot tall and don’t weigh more than 1.1 pounds – much smaller than domestic cats which typically range between 8-12 pounds in weight.
Rats are liminal creatures that inhabit sewers and bridge the gap between worlds. Though we fear them, rats have saved countless lives over time and should be given our respect. Additionally, they spend more time grooming themselves than cats do!
Myth 2: Rats have a sense of smell
McGann notes that the widespread belief that rats lack an acute sense of smell has long been disproved by scientific experts. First mentioned in 19th-century writings and still prevalent today, says McGann.
Rodent noses differ significantly from human ones in that their specially designed muzzle hairs collect information on objects’ size, shape and texture. These furry coverings can also be moved back and forth for tracking purposes; their extremely sensitive sensors help them track them effectively.
Rats have more genes that code for olfactory proteins than humans, which explains their vast number of receptors in their noses allowing them to detect far more odors than people or dogs do, even detect landmines!
Myth 3: Rats are vegetarian
Rats are omnivores, meaning they eat both meat and vegetables, just like humans do. Like humans though, rats require a balanced diet that meets all their minimum nutrient and vitamin requirements for health.
Many owners may be tempted to prepare a homemade diet for their rats, but the ideal approach would be one specifically formulated for rats. Search for one with high quality, non-destructive ingredients – and no corn fillers! – that will provide optimal care.
If you choose to create your own homemade diet for your child, make sure it contains at least 80% protein and contains fresh fruits and vegetables as well. In addition, make sure portion control is adhered to.
If you want to give your rats something extra tasty, try offering raw or roasted nuts as treats. Just be wary that certain nuts contain anti-nutrients such as lectins and phytates that could reduce absorption of key vitamins.
Myth 4: Rats can’t be trapped
Rats are adaptable creatures that can thrive anywhere they find food, water and shelter. Rats may enter buildings through holes in the foundation or gaps around vents or appliance lines; cracks in exterior walls also allow access.
Many are often surprised to learn that rats don’t require large entrance points to enter your home – they can fit through holes only two to four inches wide! Therefore, it’s essential that you search your house carefully for any potential entryways which may allow rats access.
Animals that hunt are typically active at night, though they can also be active during daylight hours to find food and shelter.