Connections Reiki ~ Pet Care: Rodents

There are a few general things to be said about rodents, but they are only generalizations, as the Order rodentia consists of 2000 to 3000 species, comprising 40% of all mammal species. Most are small, ranging from the tiny African Pygmy Mouse (7 grams) to the 100 pound capybara of South America.

Rodents are found on every continent except for Antarctica and in every sort of habitat except for salt water. The capybara lives a semi-aquatic life, as does the beaver. Mainly arboreal rodents include squirrels and chipmunks. Subterranean rodents such as groundhogs (woodchucks) and prairie dogs.

Most rodents are nearer the bottom of the food chain, an important food source for carnivores. Many have evolved complex and interesting forms of defense. Prairie dogs live in colonies, utilizing a complex social structure and vocalizations to alert other colony members of a threat. Porcupines have developed sharp barbed quills that embed in the flesh of any predator unlucky or unexperienced enough to get too close. Contrary to popular belief, porcupines do not 'shoot' their quills, but they may swing their tails if threatened. North and South American porcupines are also very accomplished tree climbers.

One common characteristic of all rodents is the nature of their teeth. Both their upper and lower incisors grow continuously. They are self-sharpening, the front, or outside, surface is made of hard enamel, the back or inside surface is made of softer dentin.

Many animals that are not of the order rodentia are often mistaken for rodents, such as bats (Chiroptera); moles (Talpidae), shrews (Soricidae) and hedgehogs (Erinaceinae); rabbits and hares (Leporidae); and members of the mustelid family like ferrets and otters.

Rodents

Chinchillas

Gerbils

Guinea Pigs

Hamsters

Mice

Rats