Articles for tag: rats

Rats Laugh When Tickled—and They Prefer It

Rats Laugh When Tickled—and They Prefer It

Annette Uy

Imagine a world where laughter isn’t just the domain of humans—it fills the quiet corners of laboratory cages, echoing in the ultrasonic frequencies of tiny creatures that scurry unnoticed beneath our feet. The idea is almost unbelievable: rats, those misunderstood survivors of cities and forests, don’t just respond when tickled—they actually laugh. Even more astonishing, ...

Mathematical Minds: Number Sense and Counting Abilities

Are Rats Smarter Than We Think? Surprising Studies in Rodent Intelligence

Annette Uy

The tiny paws scurrying across laboratory floors carry secrets that might fundamentally change how we view intelligence itself. For decades, we’ve dismissed rats as simple creatures driven purely by instinct, yet groundbreaking research is revealing cognitive abilities that rival those of much larger mammals. These remarkable rodents are solving complex puzzles, showing empathy for their ...

HeroRAT

How Clever Rats Were Trained to Detect Landmines and Save Lives

Annette Uy

In the world of remarkable animals, rats often find themselves misunderstood. Yet, these small creatures, often seen scurrying in city shadows, have taken on a heroic role that is saving lives across the globe. Imagine a world where landmines, remnants of past conflicts, lie hidden beneath the earth, posing a silent threat to unsuspecting civilians. ...

How Rats Are Being Trained to Sniff Out Landmines and Save Lives

How Rats Are Being Trained to Sniff Out Landmines and Save Lives

Annette Uy

In a world where the threat of landmines continues to loom large, the solution to this deadly problem might just lie in an unexpected place: the humble rat. These small, intelligent creatures are being trained to detect landmines, a task that is as dangerous as it is crucial. The innovative program harnesses the rats’ keen ...

New York Has Rats — But Did You Know Some of Them Are Excellent Swimmers?

New York Has Rats — But Did You Know Some of Them Are Excellent Swimmers?

Annette Uy

New York City is famous for its soaring skyscrapers, dazzling lights, and bustling streets. But beneath the surface, another population thrives—one that often sparks disgust, fascination, and even fear: rats. These resilient rodents have adapted to the city’s every nook and cranny, from the deepest subway tunnels to the overflowing trash bins on street corners. ...