Rodents comprise the single largest group of mammals. Out of the 4,000 mammalian species on earth, over a quarter of them are considered rodents. Despite their species diversity, all rodents share one common feature: they all have a single pair of incisors in their jaw which grow continually throughout their life.

The rodents that humans most frequently encounter are called commensal or domestic rodents. These are animals which have become well adapted to living in and around human structures, towns and cities.

In Alameda County, the Roof rat (Rattus rattus), Norway rat (R. norviegicus) and House mouse (Mus musculus) are the three most commonly encountered domestic rodent species. They are all considered non-native species in California, but have found ways to thrive in both urban and rural environments throughout state, the U.S. and the rest of the world.

Rats and mice share many similar body features. However, each has unique traits which can help you identify different species.

The Roof rat has a characteristic tail that is longer than its body length. It has a pointed snout and big ears. The fur color can vary from grey, brown to black. The Norway rat has a shorter tail, less than its body length. The snout is blunt and ears small. The body is more robust compared to the Roof rat and fur greyish in color. The House mouse is small (2.0–3.9 in) and can often be confused with a young rat. A young rat will have a larger head and disproportionately large hind feet.

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A Guide to Rodents

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