If you want to identify a rat, it’s important to note that mice and rats, though related, are not the same. Mice are typically smaller, with lighter fur, larger ears, and overall seem more delicate.

Rats are large rodents, typically brown or grey, and can weigh up to 650 grams. Their noses are blunt, opposite to the pointy nose of the mouse, and their tails are 6-8 inches long and light pink.

Below is a picture of a common brown rat:

Note the thick, long tail, the small ears, and the blunt nose.

Now below, we have a mouse:

This mouse has a pointed nose and skull, and its ears seem too large for its body.

For typical behaviours, the rat will act aggressive when feeling threatened. If you are bitten by a rat, it’s important to get the bite checked by a professional. As everyone knows, rats have a history of disease. Mice are more shy and will rarely attack humans. Noting the behaviour of the rodent is a helpful way to identify it.

Overall, when you want to identify a rodent, wether it’s running around your subway station or camping out in your attic, the three main components are their physical features, their behaviour, and their size.