Rodents

Rodents are mammals in the order Rodentia, defined by a single pair of continuously growing incisors in each jaw used for gnawing.

Rodents are mammals in the order Rodentia, defined by a single pair of continuously growing incisors in each jaw used for gnawing. They are the largest order of mammals, with more than 2,000 living species, and include animals such as mice, rats, squirrels, beavers, and capybaras. Rodents are found on all continents except Antarctica and occupy a wide range of habitats.

Classification and defining features

Rodents are placental mammals in the order Rodentia. Their key diagnostic feature is a single pair of upper and lower incisors that grow continuously and are adapted for gnawing. The word "rodent" comes from Latin for "to gnaw."

Diversity and families

Rodents include thousands of species across many families, ranging from mice and rats to squirrels, porcupines, beavers, and chinchillas. They represent the most species-rich mammalian order, with more than 2,000 living species, accounting for about 40% to nearly half of all mammal species.

Distribution and habitats

Rodents occur on every continent except Antarctica and inhabit most terrestrial environments. They live in forests, deserts, grasslands, wetlands, mountains, tundra, and human-modified landscapes. Their adaptability contributes to their widespread distribution.

Relationship with humans

Rodents have major ecological and economic significance. Some species are pests or disease carriers, while others are used as pets, food, fur animals, or research models. In Canada, rodents such as beavers, squirrels, and porcupines are common, and the beaver holds particular symbolic importance.