Rats are very intelligent animals. Some have been trained to detect landmines.

Norway rats (also known as brown rats) are the same species as the fancy rats you find in pet stores. Fancy rats have been bred to have more colorful variations in their coat to make them visually appealing.

Rats are affectionate! Norway rats have been documented seeking out back and belly scratches from handlers, then bursting into playful bounding called “joy jumps.”

Despite being known as the Norway Rat, Rattus norvegicus is native to northern China. International trade introduced them throughout rest of the world beginning in the 18th century. Brown rats are now found on every continent except Antarctica.

Originally, Norway Rats lived primarily in forests, but has since developed as a commensal species with humans, preferring to live almost anywhere humans are present. They now make their homes in a variety of habitats, from forests and open fields, to sewers and buildings. Brown rats may build elaborate burrows with chambers for food storage and nesting.

Norway Rats are intelligent, social animals with the ability to be trained through operant conditioning and positive reinforcement.