Smithsonian Institutions National Zoo recognizes World Rat Day
Every dog has his day, and apparently even rats have one, too. The Smithsonian Institution’s National Zoo noted on Saturday that we had arrived at World Rat Day.
Many might question the need for such an observance, but in a tweet, the zoo was forthright about reasons for celebrating at least the Norway rat — the gray or brown one that is readily visible on the streets of Washington.
Tweeted the zoo: “The Norway rat’s ability to memorize mazes, deftly run up and down walls and keen sense of smell make it a species worth celebrating.”
An obvious question arises: Does the zoo have rats of its own? (On exhibit, that is, and not foraging for leftovers after visitors are gone.) It appears that the zoo does. They are Donut, Muffin and Cupcake.
Many of the zoo’s animals reside in surroundings that may resemble their natural haunts, and it appeared that an effort was made to let the rats feel at home.
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A keeper noted in 2017 the year they arrived that their habitat was designed to “look like a basement.” It included a clothesline for them to cross.
The World Rat Day website said the day began in 2002 “to recognize the fancy rat as a wonderful pet and companion.”
It should be noted that the “fancy rat” is not one that has put on airs. Rather, it is described as the domesticated form of the common Norway rat. It is known as Rattus norvgicus domestica, and is bred to be a household pet. The description “Fancy” comes from the idea that the rat is fancied, that its owners fancy it as a pet.
Online references suggest that it is not recommended for homes with cats.
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