Rodents make up the largest group of mammals, and they all share one feature: a pair of front teeth that keep growing throughout life. Gnawing on seeds, roots and wood keeps those teeth worn down. The group ranges from the tiny harvest mouse, which weaves nests among stalks of grass, to the capybara of South America, the biggest rodent in the world. Prairie dogs live in huge underground towns, while gophers and pack rats are expert diggers and collectors.
Many rodents are also popular, gentle pets. Here you can read care guides for hamsters, gerbils and chinchillas, find advice on choosing pet rat cages, and explore profiles of wild species from deer mice to agoutis.
Scientific Classification & Quick Facts Common name Golden hamster Scientific name Mesocricetus auratus Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Class Mammalia Order Rodentia Family Cricetidae Genus Mesocricetus Conservation status Endangered Type Hamster (also called Syrian hamster) Diet Grains, seeds, small amounts of vegetables and fruit Habitat Hot, dry desert; lives in burrows Native range Syria Size 5-7…
Scientific Classification & Quick Facts Common name Emin’s pouched rat Scientific name Cricetomys emini Kingdom Animalia Phylum Chordata Class Mammalia Order Rodentia Family Nesomyidae Genus Cricetomys Conservation status Least Concern Type Large African pouched rat Diet Seeds, fruit, palm nuts and insects Habitat Tropical rainforest Native range Africa Size About 2.5 ft (76 cm) including…