Which feature is true about the Norway rat?

Which feature is true about the Norway rat?

• A. Weight 7-8 oz
• B. Body length 12-18 in
• C. Ears close set, short, thick, rarely over 3/4 in
• D. White/grey underfur

Answer: (C)

Focusing on identifying features helps distinguish the Norway rat from other rodents. The Norway rat has ears that are small, close to the head, and relatively thick; their length rarely exceeds about three-quarters of an inch. This ear profile is a reliable, practical trait for recognizing the species in the field, setting it apart from rats with larger, more prominent ears. Other options describe traits that don’t match typical Norway rat measurements or appearance. An adult Norway rat is heavier than seven to eight ounces, and its body length is not as long as twelve to eighteen inches for the body portion (the body is shorter with a tail roughly similar in length). Underfur color can vary and isn’t a dependable identifier for this species, whereas ear size and shape provide a clearer, more consistent clue.

Focusing on identifying features helps distinguish the Norway rat from other rodents. The Norway rat has ears that are small, close to the head, and relatively thick; their length rarely exceeds about three-quarters of an inch. This ear profile is a reliable, practical trait for recognizing the species in the field, setting it apart from rats with larger, more prominent ears.

Other options describe traits that don’t match typical Norway rat measurements or appearance. An adult Norway rat is heavier than seven to eight ounces, and its body length is not as long as twelve to eighteen inches for the body portion (the body is shorter with a tail roughly similar in length). Underfur color can vary and isn’t a dependable identifier for this species, whereas ear size and shape provide a clearer, more consistent clue.