What is the Difference Between Mice and Rat?

Mice and rats are both rodents, but they have several differences in terms of size, appearance, and behavior. Some of the key differences between mice and rats include:

1. Size: Rats are larger and heavier than mice. Rats can grow up to 40 cm or more in length and weigh considerably more than mice. Mice, on the other hand, measure 12 to 20 cm in length, including the tail, and weigh 12 to 30 grams.
2. Appearance: Rats have coats that can be white, gray, brown, or black in color. Their snouts are more blunt than those of mice, which have triangular snouts. Mice have large, floppy ears and long, thin, hairy tails, while rats have smaller ears and long tails that are commonly hairless and scaly.
3. Droppings: Rats produce fewer droppings (20 to 50) compared to mice (40 to 100).
4. Behavior: Mice are generally more curious and bold than rats, which tend to be more cautious. Rats typically live in fear and are avoidant of new items placed in their path, while mice are more likely to investigate.
5. Damage: Both mice and rats can cause significant damage by gnawing on various structures and wires in a home, which can lead to fire hazards. However, rats, due to their larger size and stronger teeth, can cause more extensive damage than mice.

Comparative Table: Mice vs Rat

Here is a table comparing the differences between mice and rats: