10 Facts About Rats That Might Surprise You

Rats are truly revolting creatures. That being said, if you put your squeamishness aside, these pests are actually quite fascinating.

Here are some facts about rats that are truly astounding…

1. Rats are agile climbers

With their sharp claws, these animals are able to climb any surface. Believe it or not this actually includes vertical walls. This is why rats are seemingly able get into any building, even tenth storey flats.

2. Rats are champion swimmers

Part of the reason why rats can survive so well in sewers is down to their swimming abilities. These pests are able to tread water for three straight days. Not only that, they can hold their breath for three whole minutes.

3. They destroy massive amounts of crops

Rats are a serious problem in agricultural areas, the same as mice. They routinely attack and destroy produce, costing farmers millions. For example, did you know they destroy about 20% of all produce grown worldwide per year?

4. They reproduce like crazy

One of the most surprising facts about rats is that they breed at a phenomenal pace. Female rats can actually give birth to more than 20 babies in one go.

5. Rats are found everywhere in the world except for one place

There isn’t a single place in the world which is not inhabited by rats. This includes every corner of the globe except for one place: Antarctica!

6. Dogs were the primary method of rat control

In Victorian times, they used to control these pests by people known as “rat catchers.” Instead of using poison or traps, these people would train animals to kill rats. This was usually a dog, the most popular breed being the rat terrier. Then you just had to learn how to get rid of fleas!

7. Gruesome facts about rats is that some people eat them

This might sound mad, but rats are actually a delicacy in some countries. These pests are regularly served for dinner in places like Cambodia, Myanmar, China, Vietnam and Indonesia. One of the more crazy facts about rats!

8. Rats have an astounding sense of smell

Like dogs, rats have an incredible sense of smell. Like dogs they can also be trained to use this sense in the service of humans. For example, rats have been trained to detect landmines. They have also been trained to detect diseases such as tuberculosis. You don’t see facts like that in any rat guides.

9. Romans are responsible for rats in Europe

According to historians, it’s mostly Romans who are responsible for spearing rats across Europe. These vermin came along with the Romans as they conquered Europe. Although rats lived wild in Europe, trading meant that foreign rats arrived on ships and caused problems.

10. Rats were the first animals in space

One of the most surprising facts about rats is that they were actually the first animals in space. These pests were launched into orbit in a rocket sent from France.