Rat

Rats are medium-sized, long-tailed rodents, most often referring to members of the genus *Rattus* in the family Muridae.

Rats are medium-sized, long-tailed rodents, most often referring to members of the genus *Rattus* in the family Muridae. In common usage, the word is also applied to several other rodent species. The best-known rats are the black rat and the brown rat, both closely associated with human settlements.

Classification and terminology

In scientific usage, rat usually refers to medium-sized, thin-tailed rodents in the genus *Rattus*. In broader everyday use, the term is also applied to some unrelated rodents with rat-like appearance.

Common species

The black rat (*Rattus rattus*) and brown rat (*Rattus norvegicus*) are the species most often associated with the name rat. Both have spread widely beyond their original ranges through association with humans.

Habitat and behaviour

Rats are highly adaptable and often live in urban and agricultural environments, especially near food and shelter provided by humans. Many species are omnivorous and capable climbers, burrowers, and gnawers.

Relationship with humans

Rats have a mixed relationship with people: they are pests in some settings because they can damage food stores and spread disease, but they are also important in scientific research and are kept as companion animals in domesticated forms.