These little creatures, which we have adopted as full-fledged pets, the same as cats and dogs, are much more interesting than seems at first glance. What are the five peculiarities associated with the most numerous order of mammals, which every animal enthusiast should know about? Let's brush up on our knowledge a bit.
Mice and their poor eyesight
Mice are known for their extremely well-developed hearing. This allows them to detect movement from up to twenty meters away. As for their eyesight, it is a slightly different story. Mice are short-sighted and their sharp vision ends past half a metre. Also their colour vision is limited as they are naturally dichromatic - there are only two spectral cone types that are sensitive to blue or green light, and they completely lack the receptors for perceiving red colour. Due to their small black eyes, which are very sensitive to bright daylight, these tiny fluff balls are active mainly at night or they prefer dark nooks and crannies. As you probably know, it is difficult to catch sight of them during the day.
Mice, rats and their memory of an elephant
Do you know why are rats and mice regularly used for various tests and experiments? It is because of their incredible memory. And compared to other animals, they are highly trainable. One of the reasons scientists often use them for their experiments is that they always remember the way to their food.
No need to drink
How is it possible that mice do not need to drink much? They hydrate through food. Yes, for example, they get water from grains. However, this does not change the fact that, unlike other creatures, they are able to find water almost anywhere.
Rodents' front teeth - their biggest asset
The absolutely unique feature of rodents are their front teeth. They grow continuously throughout their whole life and because they can grow by up to 15 centimetres a year, rodents regularly grind them. These small mammals keep their two pairs of sharp and strong incisors in a good condition, mainly because they use them not only for eating but also to gnaw through various openings, wood as well as plastic or concrete. Teeth are therefore rodents' most frequently used body part.
Rodent - a sociable creature
Wherever you see one, you can expect many others. There is a simple rule that applies to rodents - they form colonies. They are sociable creatures. Same as bees they also prefer to work in groups and divide work within their colonies. It is rare for an individual to move away from its base.
In this cycle, we’re going to have a look together on how cats and dogs are doing around the world. Where they are pampered and people forego them and where, to the contrary, the pets suffer and their situation is critical. Today, I will introduce you...
Especially outdoor cats are often suffering from ear mites. What is it actually, and how to get rid of it?
In this series, we will get to know famous dog personalities. Dogs play an important role in our life, so let’s take a look what they have already achieved during the time of our lives together. With his determination, Balto saved lives of many people...
Everyone likes to take their four-legged friend along with them on a holiday, but the situation just won’t allow it sometimes. Not all the dogs take well to long trips by car or high temperatures, or are A graders in obedience, some are habitual...
Already since about 100 thousand years ago, when people started with domestication, we have been aware of positive effects of living together with animals. And this doesn’t concern only healing methods. Already the very presence of our pets helps us to...
If you have a cat at home, you have certainly encountered the issue of who will take care of it at times. Especially now, at the time of holidays and departures for vacations. Relatives or friends are not always able to come over and to take the cat...
I have already written about dangerous foods for dogs. But how about cats?
All of us probably know that chocolate is dangerous for dogs. However, did you know that you can poison your furry friend even with nuts, for example?
The time of kittens is getting closer. Outside, however, the kittens may lose their mum from various reasons. Besides, people will start getting rid of unwanted family arrivals. So it can easily happen to you, that you will find little cat new-borns....
Do you know, that you can insure your pet? But does it even pay off, what does the insurance cover and what are the conditions?
You may have already met a dog with a tied yellow ribbon on its collar or on its leash in the street. Did you know, that it is not a fashion accessory, but a message for the passers-by?
Rabbit hopping is a relatively young discipline that is quickly gaining new fans. After all, rabbits are virtually born for jumping, so why not use it for both their and their master’s entertainment.
