Rodent Pets: A Comparison
Take a look at the differences and similarities between popular rodent
pets, including gerbils, Guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, and rats. Compare
their size, lifespan, and native areas.
| |
Gerbil
|
Guinea Pig
|
Hamster
|
Mouse
|
Rat
|
|
Length*
|
4–6 in. |
10–11 in. |
3–5 in. |
2–3 in. |
6–8 in. |
|
Tail
|
long |
none |
short |
long |
long |
|
Cheek pouches?
|
no |
yes |
yes |
no |
no |
|
Lifespan
|
3–4 yrs |
4–6 yrs |
2–2.5 yrs |
1.5–2 yrs |
2–3 yrs |
|
Native area
|
Africa, Asia |
South America |
Asia, Europe |
worldwide |
worldwide |
|
Fun fact
|
is a very good digger |
squeals like a pig when excited |
has poor eyesight but keen
hearing |
its heart can beat 700 times a
minute |
can swim underwater |
*not including tail
Fact Monster/Information Please®
Database, © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.
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