Rodents are classified by a single pair of continuously growing incisors in both their upper and lower jaws; the length of their incisors are maintained by gnawing, which is how they eat. The diet of Rodents usually consists of seeds and plants, but some species do have more varied diets. Historically, Rodents have been keep as pets, used as laboratory animals, and treated as pests. Rodents accidentally introduced as invasive species to new ecosystems, most notably islands, have been seen to wreak havoc and cause extinction of naturally-occurring species. Rodents are found on all continents, except Antarctica, and are the only species, besides Bats and Sea Lions, to reach Australia without human introduction.

What do rodents eat?

A rodent’s diet depends on the species as well as habitat. For example, mice and rats are able to carry a flexible diet, and quickly adapt to the food available in their surroundings. Squirrels and beavers have more specific food requirements. Beavers exclusively eat plants such as grass and twigs. Rodents generally eat nuts, meat, fish, fruits, berries, and food scraps.

How do you keep rodents out of a garden?

In order to keep rodents out of a garden remove any shelters they have such as brush piles and tall grass, remove food sources, control lawn grubs, and maintain the garden clean by keeping garbage and recycling bins clean. Also seal any holes, place fences, and place mesh tubes around any plants to prevent rodents from eating them.

Where do rodents live?

There are about 2,050 species of rodents and these make up most the most diversified mammalian order. Rodents live all over the world except Antarctica. They can be found in almost every single country, as well as every type of habitat, including man-made environments. Rodents can be arboreal, semi-aquatic, or fossorial.

Rodents Guides
Browse through our curated Rodents Guides for additional categorizations, tips, details, variations, styles, and histories of Rodents. Guides provide additional insights into the unique properties and shared relationships between elements.
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1.4”-2” | 3.5-5 cm
2.75”-3.9” | 7-10 cm
.6-1.2 oz | 18-34 g
4 years (wild); 5-6 years (captivity)
African Dormouse
5.000
10.000
0.034
6.00
70
GUIDE
3D
African Dormouse
5.9”-7.3” | 15-18.5 cm
12”-16” | 31-41 cm
2-4 lb | .9-1.8 kg
3-5 years (wild); 8-10 years (captivity)
Black-Tailed Prairie Dog
18.500
41.000
1.800
10.00
800
GUIDE
3D
Black-Tailed Prairie Dog
7”-8.7” | 18-22 cm
15.7”-20” | 40-51 cm
.6-1.6 lb | 280-740 g
3-6 years (wild); up to 10 years (captivity)
California Ground Squirrel
22.000
51.000
0.740
10.00
4000
GUIDE
3D
California Ground Squirrel
Capybara
157000
20”-24” | 51-61 cm
42”-53” | 107-135 cm
77-146 lb | 35-66 kg
7-10 years (wild); 10-15 years (captivity)
Capybara
61.000
135.000
66.000
15.00
157000
GUIDE
3D
Capybara
5.1”-5.9” | 13-15 cm
9.8”-12.2” | 25-31 cm
6-10.6 lb | 170-300 g
1-4 years (wild); 5-9 years (captivity)
Common Degu
15.000
31.000
0.300
9.00
19200
GUIDE
3D
Common Degu
2.4”-3.5” | 6-9 cm
6”-10” | 15-25 cm
.6-1.5 lb | 250-700 g
1-2 years (wild); 2-3 years (captivity)
Common Rat
9.000
25.000
0.700
3.00
120000
GUIDE
3D
Common Rat
1.4”-2.2” | 3.5-5.5 cm
3.1”-5.1” | 8-13 cm
.7-1.4 oz | 20-40 g
.5-1 year (wild); 1-3 years (captivity)
Common Vole
5.500
13.000
0.040
3.00
73000
GUIDE
3D
Common Vole
1.8”-2” | 4.5-5 cm
2.75”-3.1” | 7-8 cm
.35-.6 oz | 10-17 g
2-3 years (wild); 4-5 years (captivity)
Dark Kangaroo Mouse
5.000
8.000
0.017
5.00
8000
GUIDE
3D
Dark Kangaroo Mouse
1.6”-2.4” | 4-6 cm
3”-4.5” | 7.6-11.4 cm
.14-.33 lb | 65-150 g
2-4 years (wild); 6-8 years (captivity)
Eastern Chipmunk
6.000
11.400
0.150
8.00
4100
GUIDE
3D
Eastern Chipmunk
4.3”-5.5” | 11-14 cm
8”-11” | 20-28 cm
.9-1.3 lb | 400-600 g
6-12 years (wild); up to 20 years (captivity)
Eastern Gray Squirrel
14.000
28.000
0.600
20.00
1900
GUIDE
3D
Eastern Gray Squirrel
Groundhog
172000
8.7”-11” | 22-28 cm
16”-20” | 41-51 cm
5-13 lb | 2.3-5.9 kg
3-6 years (wild); 10-14 years (captivity)
Groundhog
28.000
51.000
5.900
14.00
172000
GUIDE
3D
Groundhog
3.3”-4.1” | 8.5-10.5 cm
7.9”-9.8” | 20-25 cm
1.5-2.6 lb | .7-1.2 kg
2-4 years (wild); 5-7 years (captivity)
Guinea Pig | Cavy
10.500
25.000
1.200
7.00
7300
GUIDE
3D
Guinea Pig | Cavy
1.2”-2” | 3-5 cm
2.5”-4” | 6.3-10.2 cm
1.4-1.6 oz | 40-45 g
1-2 years (wild); 2-5 years (captivity)
House Mouse
5.000
10.200
0.045
5.00
17000
GUIDE
3D
House Mouse
2.6”-4.3” | 6.5-11 cm
5.5”-9” | 14-23 cm
.3-.5 lb | 150-220 g
5-7 years (wild); 10-19 years (captivity)
Japanese Dwarf Flying Squirrel
11.000
23.000
0.220
19.00
5900
GUIDE
3D
Japanese Dwarf Flying Squirrel
4.1”-6.9” | 10.5-17.5 cm
8.5”-14” | 22-36 cm
1.8-2.4 lb | 800-1100 g
8-10 years (wild); 10-20 years (captivity)
Long-Tailed Chinchilla
17.500
36.000
1.100
20.00
1200
GUIDE
3D
Long-Tailed Chinchilla
11”-14.6” | 28-37 cm
23.6”-31.5” | 60-80 cm
13-31 lb | 6-14 kg
Up to 12 years (wild); 12-16 years (captivity)
Lowland Paca
37.000
80.000
14.000
16.00
700
GUIDE
3D
Lowland Paca
2.2”-2.7” | 5.6-6.8 cm
4.5”-5.7” | 11.5-14.5 cm
2-4.6 oz | 60-130 g
2-3 years (wild); 3-5 years (captivity)
Mongolian Gerbil
6.800
14.500
0.130
5.00
2700
GUIDE
3D
Mongolian Gerbil
Muskrat
106000
4.5”-6.7” | 11.5-17 cm
10”-15” | 25-38 cm
1.5-4.5 lb | .7-2 kg
2-4 years (wild); up to 10 years (captivity)
Muskrat
17.000
38.000
2.000
10.00
106000
GUIDE
3D
Muskrat
14.2”-16.9” | 36-43 cm
29”-35” | 74-89 cm
25-75 lb | 11.3-34 kg
10-15 years (wild); 15-25 years (captivity)
North American Beaver
43.000
89.000
34.000
25.00
3500
GUIDE
3D
North American Beaver
12.6”-16.5” | 32-42 cm
23.6”-35.4” | 60-90 cm
20-40 lb | 9-18 kg
10-15 years (wild); 15-30 years (captivity)
North American Porcupine
42.000
90.000
18.000
30.00
200
GUIDE
3D
North American Porcupine
2.2”-2.6” | 5.5-6.5 cm
5.1”-6.3” | 13-16 cm
2.5-4.6 oz | 70-130 g
1-2 years (wild); 2-3 years (captivity)
Norway Lemming
6.500
16.000
0.130
3.00
30000
GUIDE
3D
Norway Lemming
8.3”-11.8” | 21-30 cm
16”-25” | 41-64 cm
10-35 lb | 4.5-16 kg
4-7 years (wild); up to 12 years (captivity)
Nutria | Coypu
30.000
64.000
16.000
12.00
11000
GUIDE
3D
Nutria | Coypu
1.8”-2.4” | 4.5-6 cm
3.5”-5.5” | 8-14 cm
2.1-3.4 oz | 60-95 g
2-5 years (wild); 5-10 years (captivity)
Ord’s Kangaroo Rat
6.000
14.000
0.095
10.00
26000
GUIDE
3D
Ord’s Kangaroo Rat
3.5”-5.1” | 9-13 cm
8.2”-13.8” | 21-35 cm
.26-.44 lb | 120-200 g
1-3 years (wild); 5-7 years (captivity)
Plains Pocket Gopher
13.000
35.000
0.200
7.00
450
GUIDE
3D
Plains Pocket Gopher
1.1”-1.9” | 2.7-4.7 cm
2”-3” | 4.5-7.6 cm
.7-1 oz | 20-30 g
2-3 years (wild); 4-5 years (captivity)
Roborovski Dwarf Hamster
4.700
7.600
0.030
5.00
17000
GUIDE
3D
Roborovski Dwarf Hamster
9.4”-13.4” | 24-34 cm
18.5”-27.5” | 47-70 cm
3.5-11 lb | 1.6-5 kg
12-15 years (wild); up to 21 years (captivity)
Yellow-Bellied Marmot
34.000
70.000
5.000
21.00
4200
GUIDE
3D
Yellow-Bellied Marmot
California Ground Squirrel

The California Ground Squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) is a species of medium-sized Ground Squirrel rodent that lives on the ground rather than up in the trees. Scientifically known as Marmotini, ground squirrels are noted for their ability to stand up and remain standing on its hind legs for long periods of time.

Physically, it has a bushy tail, rounded ears, strong claws, and fur that varies in color from tawny to dark, reddish-brown. The ground squirrel is an omnivore that is active during the day, retreating to burrows it digs for safety and rest.

California Ground Squirrels have a height of 7”-8.7” (18-22 cm), body length between 15.7”-20” (40-51 cm), and an overall weight in the range of .6-1.6 lb (280-740 g). The tail length of a California Ground Squirrel is 5”-7” (13-18 cm). California Ground Squirrels have a typical lifespan of 3-6 years in the wild and up to 10 years in captivity.

Dimensioned collection of scaled drawings of California Ground Squirrels in various poses
The California Ground Squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi) is a species of medium-sized Ground Squirrel rodent that lives on the ground rather than up in the trees. Scientifically known as Marmotini, ground squirrels are noted for their ability to stand up and remain standing on its hind legs.

California Ground Squirrels have a height of 7”-8.7” (18-22 cm), body length between 15.7”-20” (40-51 cm), and an overall weight in the range of .6-1.6 lb (280-740 g). The tail length of a California Ground Squirrel is 5”-7” (13-18 cm). California Ground Squirrels have a typical lifespan of 3-6 years in the wild and up to 10 years in captivity.

Dimensioned collection of scaled drawings of California Ground Squirrels in various poses
California Ground Squirrel
Height:
7”-8.7” | 18-22 cm
Width:
Length:
15.7”-20” | 40-51 cm
Depth:
Weight:
.6-1.6 lb | 280-740 g
Area:
Tail Length
5”-7” | 13-18 cm
Scientific Name
Otospermophilus beecheyi
Lifespan
3-6 years (wild); up to 10 years (captivity)

Drawings include:

California Ground Squirrel side elevation (standing), front (standing), side (sitting)

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Groundhog | Woodchuck

The Groundhog or Woodchuck, scientifically known as Marmota monax, is one kind of the 14 species of giant ground squirrels identified as marmots. The Groundhog undergoes hibernation and will dig a winter burrow deep enough to ensure a temperature above freezing as well as maintain a maximum weight right before entering this state.

Also called the “whistle-pig,” the Groundhog utilizes a high-pitched whistle to alert its colony if it notices danger. Another way it remains watchful is by standing completely still on its hind feet. The Groundhog or Woodchuck is noted for being territorial and aggressive in nature, using its claws and incisors to dig or attack if needed.

Groundhogs have a height of 8.7”-11” (22-28 cm), body length between 16”-20” (41-51 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 5-13 lb (2.3-5.9 kg). The tail length of a Groundhog is 4”-6” (10-15 cm). Groundhogs have a typical lifespan of 3-6 years in the wild and up to 10-14 years in captivity.

Set of dimensioned elevation drawings of the Groundhog (Woodchuck)
The Groundhog or Woodchuck, scientifically known as Marmota monax, is one kind of the 14 species of giant ground squirrels identified as marmots. The Groundhog undergoes hibernation and will dig a winter burrow deep enough to ensure a temperature above freezing as well as keeping a maximized weight.

Groundhogs have a height of 8.7”-11” (22-28 cm), body length between 16”-20” (41-51 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 5-13 lb (2.3-5.9 kg). The tail length of a Groundhog is 4”-6” (10-15 cm). Groundhogs have a typical lifespan of 3-6 years in the wild and up to 10-14 years in captivity.

Set of dimensioned elevation drawings of the Groundhog (Woodchuck)
Groundhog | Woodchuck
Height:
8.7”-11” | 22-28 cm
Width:
Length:
16”-20” | 41-51 cm
Depth:
Weight:
5-13 lb | 2.3-5.9 kg
Area:
Tail Length
4”-6” | 10-15 cm
Scientific Name
Marmota monax
Lifespan
3-6 years (wild); 10-14 years (captivity)

Drawings include:

Groundhog (Woodchuck) side elevation (standing), front (standing), front (upright)

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Lowland Paca
Dimensioned size comparison illustration of the Lowland Paca compared to an average person

Also known as the spotted paca, the Lowland Paca is a rodent native to the subtropical regions of North and South America. Scientifically known as Cuniculus paca, the Lowland Paca gets its secondary name from its physical appearance: a dark brown coat with rows of white spots running down its sides.

Other physical characteristics include: a large head, short thick legs, and a seemingly nonexistent or nub of a tail. The Lowland Paca is noted to be skillful diggers, swimmers, and climbers. It builds bankside burrows, avoids danger by submerging into the water, and can gather fruits from trees.

Lowland Pacas have a height of 11”-14.6” (28-37 cm), body length between 23.6”-31.5” (60-80 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 13-31 lb (6-14 kg). The tail length of a Lowland Paca is 5.1”-9” (13-23 cm). Lowland Pacas have a typical lifespan of up to 12 years in the wild and between 12-16 years in captivity.

Collection of scaled elevation drawings of the Lowland Paca
Also known as the spotted paca, the Lowland Paca is a rodent native to the subtropical regions of North and South America. Scientifically known as Cuniculus paca, the Lowland Paca gets its secondary name from its physical appearance: a dark brown coat with rows of white spots running down its sides.

Lowland Pacas have a height of 11”-14.6” (28-37 cm), body length between 23.6”-31.5” (60-80 cm), and an overall weight in the range of 13-31 lb (6-14 kg). The tail length of a Lowland Paca is 5.1”-9” (13-23 cm). Lowland Pacas have a typical lifespan of up to 12 years in the wild and between 12-16 years in captivity.

Collection of scaled elevation drawings of the Lowland Paca
Lowland Paca
Height:
11”-14.6” | 28-37 cm
Width:
Length:
23.6”-31.5” | 60-80 cm
Depth:
Weight:
13-31 lb | 6-14 kg
Area:
Tail Length
5.1”-9” | 13-23 cm
Scientific Name
Cuniculus paca
Lifespan
Up to 12 years (wild); 12-16 years (captivity)

Drawings include:

Lowland Paca side elevation (standing), front (standing), side (sitting)

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African Dormouse

The African Dormouse, also known as the woodland dormouse, is a kind of tiny rodent showing similarities in appearance to that of a squirrel in combination with features of a mouse. Scientifically identified as Graphiurus murinus, the wild African Dormouse lives in subtropical or tropical climates (native to Africa as its name suggests).

Physically, the African Dormouse is distinguished by large eyes, a long bushy tail, and silky coat. Its coloration includes gray/brown streaks along its body and white found on its cheeks and underbelly. The African Dormouse is a social animal, but quiet in vocalization and shy around people as pets.

African Dormice have a height of 1.4”-2” (3.5-5 cm), body length between 2.75”-3.9” (7-10 cm), and an overall weight in the range of .6-1.2 oz (18-34 g). The tail length of an African Dormouse is 2.4”-4.3” (6-11 cm). African Dormice have a typical lifespan of 4 years in the wild and up to 5-6 years in captivity.

Set of dimensioned elevation drawings of the African Dormouse
The African Dormouse, also known as the woodland dormouse, is a kind of tiny rodent showing similarities in appearance to that of a squirrel in combination with features of a mouse. Scientifically identified as Graphiurus murinus, the wild African Dormouse lives in subtropical or tropical climates.

African Dormice have a height of 1.4”-2” (3.5-5 cm), body length between 2.75”-3.9” (7-10 cm), and an overall weight in the range of .6-1.2 oz (18-34 g). The tail length of an African Dormouse is 2.4”-4.3” (6-11 cm). African Dormice have a typical lifespan of 4 years in the wild and up to 5-6 years in captivity.

Set of dimensioned elevation drawings of the African Dormouse
African Dormouse
Height:
1.4”-2” | 3.5-5 cm
Width:
Length:
2.75”-3.9” | 7-10 cm
Depth:
Weight:
.6-1.2 oz | 18-34 g
Area:
Tail Length
2.4”-4.3” | 6-11 cm
Scientific Name
Graphiurus murinus
Lifespan
4 years (wild); 5-6 years (captivity)

Drawings include:

African Dormouse side elevation (standing), front (standing), side (sitting)

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Eastern Chipmunk

The Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus) is a ground squirrel native to and residing in deciduous forests of eastern North America. It can also be spotted around urban parks or rocky areas with shrub cover. The Eastern Chipmunk is small and has pouched cheeks for storing and carrying food.

It is distinguished by both light and dark brown stripes running along its body with a lighter underbelly and darker tail. Although it does not go into hibernation, the Eastern Chipmunk will sleep for long periods of time and wake every so often to consume the food kept in its burrow.

Eastern Chipmunks have a height of 1.6”-2.4” (4-6 cm), body length between 3”-4.5” (7.6-11.4 cm), and an overall weight in the range of .14-.33 lb (65-150 g). The tail length of an Eastern Chipmunk is 2.75”-4.3” (7-11 cm). Eastern Chipmunks have a typical lifespan of 2-4 years in the wild and 6-8 years in captivity.

Series of measured elevation illustrations of the Eastern Chipmunk
The Eastern Chipmunk (Tamias striatus) is a ground squirrel native to and residing in deciduous forests of eastern North America. It can also be spotted around urban parks or rocky areas with shrub cover. The Eastern Chipmunk is small and has pouched cheeks for storing and carrying food.

Eastern Chipmunks have a height of 1.6”-2.4” (4-6 cm), body length between 3”-4.5” (7.6-11.4 cm), and an overall weight in the range of .14-.33 lb (65-150 g). The tail length of an Eastern Chipmunk is 2.75”-4.3” (7-11 cm). Eastern Chipmunks have a typical lifespan of 2-4 years in the wild and 6-8 years in captivity.

Series of measured elevation illustrations of the Eastern Chipmunk
Eastern Chipmunk
Height:
1.6”-2.4” | 4-6 cm
Width:
Length:
3”-4.5” | 7.6-11.4 cm
Depth:
Weight:
.14-.33 lb | 65-150 g
Area:
Tail Length
2.75”-4.3” | 7-11 cm
Scientific Name
Tamias striatus
Lifespan
2-4 years (wild); 6-8 years (captivity)

Drawings include:

Eastern Chipmunk side elevation (standing), front (sitting), side (sitting), side (running)

Details & Downloads

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