Rodents are one of the most diverse groups of mammals, found in nearly every habitat across the world. With over 2,000 species, these small but adaptable creatures play a crucial role in ecosystems, acting as prey for predators, seed dispersers, and even burrowers that help aerate the soil. Understanding the types of rodents is essential not only for wildlife enthusiasts but also for homeowners and farmers who may encounter them in both wild and urban environments.
From tiny field mice to large porcupines, the types of rodents vary widely in size, behavior, and habitat. Some rodents, like squirrels and guinea pigs, are considered harmless or even kept as pets, while others, such as rats and gophers, are often seen as pests due to their ability to damage crops and property. Each species has unique adaptations, making them well-suited to their specific environments.
In this guide, we will explore 46 different types of rodents, providing pictures and identification details to help you recognize them. Whether you’re curious about their characteristics, habits, or ecological importance, this comprehensive list will give you valuable insights into these fascinating creatures.
Common Types of Rodents with Pictures
Beaver
Beavers are among the most recognizable rodents, known for their incredible ability to build dams and lodges in rivers and lakes. Despite their fame, many people are unaware that they belong to the rodent family.
They have a distinctive appearance, featuring a broad, flat tail, hunched back, and large, protruding front teeth. Their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, while their thick fur provides insulation in cold waters.
Unfortunately, beaver populations have declined due to excessive hunting, primarily for their valuable fur. Conservation efforts aim to protect these crucial ecosystem engineers, as they play a significant role in wetland environments.
Blesmol (Mole-Rats)
Blesmols, commonly known as mole-rats, are burrowing rodents adapted to a subterranean lifestyle. They are most commonly found in underground tunnels, where they dig extensive networks using their strong front teeth and claws.
These rodents have cylindrical bodies, short limbs, and small eyes, which make them nearly blind. Their loose skin and velvety fur help them move easily through narrow burrows without getting stuck.
Despite their small size, mole-rats have powerful incisors that allow them to gnaw through tough roots and underground vegetation. Some species, such as the naked mole-rat, have unique social structures similar to those of ants or bees.
Cane Rat
Cane Rats belong to the pest species category and are considered highly destructive to crops. These rodents are often found in agricultural areas where they feed on sugarcane and other vegetation, causing significant damage to farmlands.
They are easily recognizable by their large heads, bristly brown fur speckled with yellow and gray spots, and their lack of a tail. They thrive in muddy and wet environments, making them common in regions with high humidity.
Cane Rats reproduce quickly, with females capable of producing two to four litters more than once a year. This rapid breeding contributes to their status as an agricultural pest, leading farmers to implement control measures to prevent infestations.
Agouti
The Agouti is often compared to guinea pigs due to their similar appearance, but they differ significantly in size and limb structure. Unlike guinea pigs, Agoutis have longer legs, making them more agile and faster runners in the wild.
These rodents are medium to large-sized and come in a variety of colors, including red, brown, orange, gray, and black. A distinctive feature that helps in identification is their two-toned belly, which contrasts with the rest of their fur.
Agoutis are commonly found in forests and grasslands, where they play an essential role in seed dispersal. Their sharp incisors help them crack open nuts, and they are known to hoard food for later consumption.
Arvicolinae
Arvicolinae is one of the most abundant groups of rodents, often serving as a primary food source for owls, hawks, and other predators. These small rodents thrive in various environments, ranging from meadows to wetlands.
They are commonly discovered in archeological sites, often within the remains of predatory animals. The Arvicolinae subfamily includes muskrats and lemmings, which are well-adapted to cold climates and semi-aquatic habitats.
Muskrats have long, partially webbed hind feet that aid in swimming, while lemmings possess thick fur to withstand freezing temperatures. Their rapid reproduction rates contribute to their high population numbers.
Apodemus (Wood Mouse)
The Apodemus, also known as the wood mouse, is a long-tailed field mouse commonly found in forests, grasslands, and farmlands. These small rodents primarily feed on grasses and plants but seek shelter in buildings during harsh weather conditions.
They have large, beady eyes, oversized ears, and a pointed snout, making them highly sensitive to their surroundings. Their diet consists of seeds, roots, fruits, and even small insects, which makes them omnivorous foragers.
Wood mice are nocturnal creatures, displaying heightened activity at night. They can become aggressive in the dark, especially when competing for food or territory.
Cavies (Caviidae)
Cavies belong to the Caviidae family, which includes various species such as guinea pigs and the largest living rodent, the Capybara. They are commonly found in thorny forests and scrub deserts, where they navigate through dense vegetation with ease.
These rodents are distinguished by their brown fur, often speckled with yellow and gray spots. They have heavy, robust bodies, large heads, and most species lack tails. Their sturdy build allows them to adapt to a variety of environments, from dry regions to wetlands.
Cavies reach maturity at around six months and have high reproductive rates, producing litters of two to four multiple times a year. Their social nature and adaptability make them well-suited to both wild and domesticated settings.
Chinchilla
Chinchillas are often compared to rabbits due to their similar appearance, but they are unique rodents known for having the densest fur of any land mammal. This thick fur helps them survive in cold, mountainous regions, but also makes them a target for the fur trade, leading to their declining population.
They inhabit burrows or tunnels and possess incredible jumping abilities, capable of leaping vertically up to six feet. Their agility helps them evade predators such as hawks, falcons, skunks, felines, snakes, and canines.
These rodents are highly social, playful, and extremely active, making them popular as exotic pets. However, they require special care due to their dense fur, which must remain dry to prevent infections.
Chipmunk (Tamias striatus)
Chipmunks are small members of the squirrel family, easily recognized by their chubby cheeks, large glossy eyes, and distinctive striped fur. Their bushy tails add to their resemblance to their larger squirrel relatives.
These rodents are known for their energetic and curious nature, often seen scurrying around forests, gardens, and urban parks. They are excellent diggers, creating complex underground burrows where they store food for the winter.
Chipmunks have gained cultural recognition as the inspiration for the popular characters in “Alvin and the Chipmunks.” Their adorable appearance and lively behavior make them a favorite among wildlife enthusiasts.
Coypu
The Coypu, also known as the Nutria, is a semi-aquatic rodent that poses significant risks to both ecosystems and human health. They are known carriers of infectious diseases, making their presence concerning in wetland areas and agricultural lands.
They can be identified by their dark black fur with distinctive white patches around their mouths and large, bright orange teeth. These rodents are herbivorous and consume large amounts of vegetation, often damaging crops and natural habitats.
Coypus live in burrows near water sources such as rivers, lakes, and marshes. Their excessive feeding and rapid reproduction make them an invasive species in many parts of the world, leading to efforts to control their populations.
Cricetidae
Cricetidae, commonly referred to as the New World Mice, is a diverse family of rodents that includes hamsters, voles, and deer mice. These rodents vary greatly in size and habitat preferences, with some species living underground, in trees, or even near bodies of water.
Many of the larger species in this group are nocturnal, becoming active at night to forage for food. They display a wide range of dietary habits, with some being strict herbivores, while others are carnivorous or omnivorous.
Cricetidae rodents are highly adaptable and thrive in various environments, from forests to grasslands. Their ability to reproduce quickly and exploit different food sources makes them one of the most widespread rodent families in the world.
Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)
The Deer Mouse, also known as Peromyscus maniculatus, is a New World rodent commonly found across North America. These adaptable mice inhabit forests, grasslands, and even human structures, making them one of the most widespread rodent species in the region.
They are easily recognizable by their large, dark eyes, which give them excellent night vision, and their two-toned fur, with a darker back and lighter underbelly. They are notably faster and more agile than common house mice, with impressive jumping abilities.
Despite their small size, Deer Mice are considered hazardous to human health because they are known carriers of viruses such as hantavirus, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis. Proper precautions are necessary when handling areas where they are present.
Degu (Octodon degu)
The Degu is a small rodent native to Chile, fitting in size between a rat and a golden hamster. It is highly social and intelligent, making it a popular pet in some regions. The name “Octodon” comes from the unique shape of their teeth, which resemble the number eight.
Degus have yellow-brown fur with a creamy-yellow underside, helping them blend into their dry, scrubland habitats. Their tails are thin, with a tufted black tip, and they have large, dark ears with sparse fur.
These rodents are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. They have excellent problem-solving skills and require social interaction, making them fascinating animals to observe. Their teeth continue to grow throughout their lives, requiring constant gnawing to prevent overgrowth.
Dipodidae
The Dipodidae family consists of about 50 species, including jerboas, jumping mice, and birch mice. These rodents are specially adapted for jumping, using their powerful hind legs to travel quickly across their environments.
They are primarily found in deserts, forests, and grasslands, where their long tails help them maintain balance while moving. Their distinct body structure—featuring two elongated legs and small front limbs—makes them easy to identify.
Some members of the Dipodidae family can leap impressive distances, making them difficult for predators to catch. They rely on their agility and speed to survive in harsh conditions, often burrowing underground to escape extreme temperatures.
Dormouse
Dormice are small, agile rodents known for their long periods of hibernation, often lasting several months in cold climates. This unique behavior has made them famous, especially through their appearance in “Alice in Wonderland.”
These rodents are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods, including plants, fruits, and insects. They are skilled climbers and are often found in trees and shrubs, where they forage for food.
Unlike many other rodents, Dormice have relatively thin fur, making them lightweight and fast-moving. Their small size and agility allow them to evade predators by quickly escaping into dense vegetation.
Echimyidae
The Echimyidae family, also known as spiny rats, is a group of nocturnal rodents primarily found in the rainforests of Central and South America. Their most distinguishing feature is the presence of spiny fur on their backs and rump, which provides protection against predators.
These rodents are highly adaptable and can live in a variety of environments, from dense forests to rocky terrains. Their sharp claws and strong teeth help them forage for food and create burrows.
Spiny rats are mostly nocturnal, using the cover of darkness to search for food and avoid predators. They have a diverse diet, consuming seeds, fruits, and small invertebrates, making them important contributors to their ecosystems.
Gerbil
Gerbils are small, active rodents that are often likened to hamsters and are popular as house pets. They are highly social creatures that enjoy interacting with their owners and fellow gerbils. Unlike some rodents, they rarely bite unless provoked, making them great companions for families.
One of their most fascinating adaptations is their specialized excretory system, which conserves water and minimizes waste, allowing them to survive in dry environments. They are easily recognizable by their thick fur, small ears, tiny toes, and long tails, which can make up nearly half of their body length.
Gerbils are known for their energetic and playful nature, often seen burrowing, digging, and exploring their environment. They require a spacious cage with plenty of bedding to satisfy their natural instincts.
Gopher (Geomyidae)
Gophers are burrowing rodents found in forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. They are known for their impressive digging abilities and can create extensive underground tunnel systems. Despite their small size, they are powerful creatures capable of moving large amounts of soil.
They can be identified by their large cheek pouches, which they use to transport food and nesting materials, and their small, hairy tails. Their fur is typically brown, matching the soil in their environment, which provides excellent camouflage.
Gophers have a lifespan of about 3–5 years, though some have been reported to live over 7 years. They play a vital role in soil aeration but are often considered pests due to their habit of damaging crops and gardens.
Groundhog (Marmota monax)
The Groundhog, also known as the Woodchuck, is a large, burrowing rodent famous for its association with Groundhog Day in North America. These rodents are known for their destructive tendencies, often raiding gardens and fields.
They have stocky bodies covered in thick brown fur, short limbs, and strong claws, which help them dig complex burrow systems. Despite their large size compared to other rodents, they are quite shy and will quickly retreat if they sense danger.
Groundhogs play an essential ecological role in maintaining soil health by aerating the ground with their digging. They are also excellent swimmers and climbers, allowing them to escape predators and access food sources in various environments.
Guinea Pig
Guinea Pigs are domesticated rodents known for their friendly and sociable nature. Unlike many rodents, they do not burrow or climb, making them easy to care for in a home environment. They thrive on human interaction and can recognize and respond to their owners with different vocalizations.
They have compact, round bodies covered in soft fur, with a variety of coat colors and patterns. Their diet primarily consists of high-quality guinea pig food, hay, and limited amounts of fresh vegetables and fruits. Clean water is essential for their well-being.
Unlike other small pets, Guinea Pigs cannot produce vitamin C on their own, so they require a diet rich in this nutrient to prevent health issues. They are highly affectionate animals that require companionship, making them ideal pets for those willing to dedicate time to their care.
Gundi
Gundis are small desert rodents native to North Africa. They are unique among rodents because they do not drink water, obtaining all necessary hydration from the plants they consume. Unfortunately, some species of Gundi are considered endangered due to habitat loss.
These rodents have a stout, compact body with soft fur, large ears, and four toes on each foot. Their most distinctive feature is the comb-like bristles on their hind feet, earning them the nickname “comb rats.” These bristles help with grooming and removing debris from their fur.
Gundis are herbivores and primarily feed on dry vegetation found in their desert habitat. They are social animals, often found in small family groups, and spend much of their time basking on rocks or hiding in crevices to escape predators.
Hamster
Hamsters are one of the most popular pet rodents, known for their small, chubby bodies and adorable appearance. They come in a variety of colors, including golden, white, gray, and brown. Their playful and curious nature makes them beloved companions in households around the world.
Despite their poor eyesight and limited adaptability to changing environments, they have a strong sense of smell, which helps them locate food and recognize their owners. They are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are most active at night.
Hamsters have cheek pouches that allow them to store food and carry it back to their nests. They require a well-ventilated cage, an exercise wheel, and plenty of bedding for burrowing to stay happy and healthy.
House Mouse (Mus domesticus)
The House Mouse is one of the most common rodent species found in both homes and commercial buildings. They are known for being pests, as they contaminate food supplies and can cause structural damage by chewing on wires, furniture, and fabrics.
These rodents have small, slender bodies with large, rounded ears, a pointed snout, and a long, nearly hairless tail. They are excellent climbers and often nest inside walls, ceilings, and other hidden spaces.
House mice reproduce rapidly, making them difficult to control once they infest a space. They are highly adaptable, surviving in various environments, but they prefer to live near humans, where food sources are abundant.
Hutia
Hutias are large, tree-dwelling rodents primarily found in the Caribbean. Although they may resemble oversized rats, they are unique in their habits and lifestyle. These animals are protected by conservation laws due to habitat loss and hunting threats.
They have stout bodies, short tails, and strong limbs, which help them navigate trees. While they are mainly herbivores, feeding on leaves, fruits, and bark, they may also consume small insects or animals when necessary.
Hutias prefer to stay in trees rather than on the ground, using their strong claws to grip branches. Their population has declined over time, but conservation efforts aim to protect these unique rodents.
Kangaroo Rat
The Kangaroo Rat gets its name from its distinctive ability to hop on two legs, similar to a kangaroo. This adaptation helps them move quickly across desert environments where they are commonly found.
They have small bodies, large hind legs, and long tails, which help them maintain balance while hopping. Their fur color varies from dark gray to cinnamon-buff, depending on the species. These rodents also have cheek pouches for storing food, allowing them to transport seeds back to their burrows.
Kangaroo Rats are well-adapted to arid climates, as they can survive without drinking water, obtaining moisture from the seeds they eat. They are also known as “Hopping Mice” due to their unique movement style.
Lemming
Lemmings are small rodents adapted to cold environments, typically found in Arctic tundras. They are well-known for their population booms, which sometimes lead to mass migrations in search of food.
These rodents have round bodies with short legs, small tails, and thick fur that provides insulation against freezing temperatures. Their fur is usually a mix of brown and black, helping them blend into their natural surroundings.
Lemmings primarily feed on mosses, grasses, and berries, but they may also dig under the snow to find roots and bulbs during winter. Despite their small size, they are resilient animals capable of surviving harsh climates.
Lowland Paca (Cuniculus paca)
The Lowland Paca is a medium-sized rodent closely related to the Agouti but distinguished by its coarse fur. It has a dark brown to black back with yellowish fur on its belly, creating a distinct contrast in its appearance.
A unique feature of the Lowland Paca is the white spots along its sides, which are covered with dark gray fur. These rodents are primarily nocturnal and are found in forests near rivers or streams, where they dig burrows for shelter.
Pacas are herbivores, feeding mainly on fruits, nuts, and vegetation. Their strong hind legs allow them to escape predators by diving into water and swimming efficiently.
Muroids
Muroids represent a vast family of rodents, including hamsters, gerbils, rats, and voles. Due to their extensive diversity, they can thrive in almost any habitat, from cold climates to tropical environments.
These rodents are highly adaptable and can live in burrows, trees, grasslands, or even water. Some species are excellent swimmers, while others are expert climbers or diggers.
Muroids vary significantly in size, behavior, and diet. Some are herbivores, while others are omnivorous or even opportunistic feeders. Their adaptability makes them one of the most widespread rodent families in the world.
Marmot
Marmots are large rodents belonging to the squirrel family (Sciuridae) and are most active during the warmer months. They hibernate during winter, making them difficult to spot in cold seasons.
These herbivorous rodents are found in mountainous regions and grasslands, where they feed on a variety of plants, including grasses and flowers. They are social animals, often living in colonies and communicating through loud whistles.
Marmots are considered the heaviest members of the squirrel family. They have thick fur and stocky bodies, which help them withstand cold temperatures during hibernation.
Meadow Voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus)
Also known as meadow mice, Meadow Voles are small rodents commonly found in moist grasslands, meadows, and areas with thick ground cover. Despite being small, they are highly skilled swimmers but are rarely seen climbing.
These rodents remain active throughout the year, even during winter. They primarily feed on grasses, sedges, and other herbaceous plants, making them an essential part of their ecosystem.
Meadow Voles are prolific breeders, with short lifespans but high reproductive rates. They are a crucial food source for many predators, including hawks, owls, and foxes.
Murids (Muridae)
Murids make up the largest family of rodents and are also the most populous among all mammal families. They are found worldwide, from urban areas to remote forests, and include species such as rats, mice, and gerbils.
These rodents vary in diet, with some being strictly herbivorous and others omnivorous. They are known for their small bodies and long tails, which often exceed their body length.
Due to their adaptability and fast reproduction, murids are among the most successful mammals on Earth. Some species, such as house mice and Norway rats, thrive in human environments, while others live in wild habitats.
Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus)
Muskrats are semi-aquatic rodents commonly found in marshes, swamps, lakes, and streams. They are well-adapted to wetland habitats, building large lodges made of cattails, sedges, and other vegetation.
These rodents primarily feed on aquatic plants like grasses, sedges, and cattails. However, they are also opportunistic feeders and may consume small animals when vegetation is scarce.
Muskrats have historically been hunted for their thick, waterproof fur, which is highly durable and used in the fur trade. Despite this, their populations remain stable in many areas.
Norway Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
The Norway Rat, also known as the brown rat, is one of the most widespread rodent species. It is commonly found in urban environments, garbage dumps, woodlands, and fields where food sources are abundant.
These rats are highly adaptable and can survive in almost any environment, making them a persistent pest in human settlements. They are known for their intelligence, strong survival instincts, and ability to reproduce rapidly.
Norway Rats can be a significant problem due to their destructive nature. They gnaw on structures, contaminate food supplies, and spread diseases such as leptospirosis and salmonella.
Old World Porcupine (Hystricidae)
Old World Porcupines are large, herbivorous rodents covered in thick, sharp spines that serve as their primary defense mechanism. When threatened, they raise their quills and may charge at predators.
These porcupines are easily recognizable by their rounded heads, mobile snouts, and strong, stocky bodies. They are found in forests, grasslands, and rocky regions across Africa, Asia, and parts of Europe.
Unlike New World Porcupines, which are skilled climbers, Old World Porcupines are mostly ground-dwelling and rely on burrows for shelter. They feed primarily on roots, fruits, and bark.
Pack Rat (Woodrat)
Pack Rats, also known as Woodrats, resemble typical rats but have larger eyes, ears, and bushier tails. They are larger than other common rodents, such as deer mice and cotton rats.
These rodents are known for their habit of collecting and hoarding shiny or interesting objects, which they store in their nests. They primarily feed on vegetation, twigs, fruits, seeds, and acorns.
Pack Rats are commonly found in forests, deserts, and rocky terrains across North and Central America. Despite their resemblance to overgrown squirrels, they are more closely related to other rodents.
Pedetes (Springhare)
Pedetes, also known as Springhares, are small rodents that resemble a mix between squirrels and kangaroos due to their long hind legs and ability to jump great distances.
They are nocturnal and primarily feed on roots, tubers, and seeds. Springhares store food in their cheek pouches and are preyed upon by many predators, including birds of prey and carnivorous mammals.
These rodents are found in dry, open areas such as grasslands and savannas. Though sometimes considered agricultural pests, they play an important role in their ecosystem by aerating soil through burrowing.
Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum)
North American Porcupines are large, slow-moving rodents covered in sharp quills that serve as a strong defense against predators. Unlike Old World Porcupines, their quills are barbed and can detach easily when they come into contact with an attacker.
Despite their spiky appearance, porcupines are sensitive and can become defensive quickly. They are primarily nocturnal and feed on bark, leaves, and twigs, especially during winter when food is scarce.
A unique feature of porcupines is their ability to regenerate lost quills. New quills grow continuously, ensuring they always have protection against threats in the wild.
Prairie Dog (Cynomys ludovicianus)
Prairie dogs are highly social rodents that live in underground burrow systems known as “towns.” They are often found in grasslands and prairies of North America, where they create extensive tunnel networks.
These rodents have unique behaviors, such as greeting each other with nose-rubbing or “kissing.” They are also known for their complex vocal communication system, which helps them warn colony members of approaching predators.
Prairie dogs play a crucial role in their ecosystem by aerating soil through their burrowing activities. However, they are often considered pests due to their habit of damaging crops and pastures.
Roof Rat (Rattus rattus)
Also known as black rats or ship rats, roof rats are highly adaptable rodents commonly found in urban areas. They prefer to live in attics, ceilings, and high places rather than burrowing underground.
These rats are notorious for causing property damage, chewing through wires, wood, and fabric. They are also dangerous as they spread diseases such as leptospirosis and bubonic plague through their droppings and urine.
Roof rats thrive in warm climates but can also adapt to colder environments. Their ability to reproduce quickly makes them a persistent problem in human settlements worldwide.
Squirrel (Sciuridae)
Squirrels are a diverse group of rodents found in forests, parks, and gardens around the world. They are divided into different species, including tree squirrels, ground squirrels, flying squirrels, and chipmunks.
These rodents are primarily herbivorous, feeding on nuts, seeds, fruits, and tree bark. They have sharp claws and strong hind legs, making them excellent climbers and jumpers.
Squirrels play a key role in forest regeneration by burying nuts, some of which later sprout into trees. Despite their cute appearance, they can become a nuisance by invading attics or damaging bird feeders.
Tuco-tuco
Tuco-tucos are burrowing rodents native to South America. They have cylindrical bodies, short legs, large heads, and strong forelimbs, which they use for digging intricate tunnel systems.
These rodents spend almost their entire lives underground, rarely coming to the surface. Their hind feet are bristled, helping them groom their fur and remove dirt from their bodies.
Tuco-tucos are considered ecosystem engineers as their burrowing activities help aerate the soil. However, they can also be agricultural pests due to their habit of feeding on roots and crops.
Vole (Microtus spp.)
Voles are small, stocky rodents that inhabit grassy areas, woodlands, and wetlands. They prefer moist environments and are commonly found near roadways, gardens, and fields.
Unlike other rodents, voles remain active year-round, with their activity levels fluctuating based on temperature and seasonal changes. Their high metabolism requires them to eat constantly, which often leads to digestive issues.
Voles are an essential food source for many predators, including owls, hawks, and foxes. However, they are also known for damaging crops, lawns, and fruit trees by gnawing on roots and bark.
Zapodinae (Jumping Mice)
Jumping mice are small rodents known for their long hind legs, which allow them to leap great distances. They are excellent swimmers and can survive in water, making them highly adaptable to different environments.
These mice are commonly found in dense vegetation, abandoned burrows, and forested areas. They have a diverse diet, feeding on fungi, fruits, seeds, invertebrates, and even small fish.
During colder months, jumping mice enter a state of torpor or hibernation to conserve energy. Their ability to remain dormant for long periods helps them survive harsh winters.
