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Rats are often seen as pests—and for good reason. They can cause significant damage to property, chew through wires, contaminate food, and spread diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella. No one wants to find these unwelcome visitors in their home or business. That’s why it’s important to keep your property rat-free in a humane way, using preventative measures like RatGates to block their entry without harming them.
But while rats can be a nuisance, they’re also fascinating creatures with remarkable intelligence, resilience, and adaptability. To showcase the lighter side of these furry critters, we’ve compiled some incredible real-life tales of rats who have made headlines, saved lives, and even stolen a slice of pizza. These stories remind us that while rats might not belong in our homes, they’re still creatures worth marveling at from a safe distance.
Magawa: The Hero Rat That Saved Lives
Magawa, an African Giant Pouched Rat, became a global hero when he was trained to sniff out landmines in Cambodia. Over his career, Magawa helped clear over 100 landmines, saving countless lives. In 2020, he was awarded a gold medal for bravery by the PDSA, an animal charity. His story showcases how rats can be valuable allies in humanitarian efforts.
The "Pizza Rat" Phenomenon
In 2015, a rat in New York City became an internet sensation when a video surfaced of it dragging an entire slice of pizza down the stairs of a subway station. Dubbed "Pizza Rat," the industrious rodent captured hearts worldwide for its sheer determination. The video became a symbol of resilience and hustle, cementing Pizza Rat’s place as a pop culture icon.
Rats in the Trenches of World War I
During World War I, rats played an unexpected role in the trenches. Soldiers often relied on rats to sense danger; their behaviour could signal incoming gas attacks or enemy activity. While they weren’t formally trained like today’s hero rats, their keen instincts often helped save lives. Some soldiers even kept rats as pets, finding comfort in their companionship amidst the horrors of war.
The Rat That Flew
In 2015, a flight from New Delhi to Milan had an unexpected stowaway - a rat. The furry traveler was spotted scurrying down the aisle, causing panic among passengers and crew. While it wasn’t intentional, the rat’s presence forced the plane to make an emergency landing for fumigation. While the story may sound like a Hollywood comedy, it highlights the adaptability of these creatures, even at 35,000 feet!
The Rats That Inspired Science
Lab rats have been pivotal in countless medical breakthroughs, from understanding diseases to testing life-saving treatments. While they often work behind the scenes, their contributions to science are nothing short of extraordinary.
