Wildlife December 2009

[Maggi Young]

That fat rat is quite cute.... is he a banker?
He does look to have a bit of a thyroid problem though, with those bulging eyes, don't you think??

Paul, it's New Year's Day, so I'm saying nothing.......

[Paul T]

Or is that a hamster or something?  The proportions don't seem right.  I've never seen a real hamster, as they're illegal here in Australia.  Still looks slightly out of proportion for the pics I have seen of those as well, although the ears are closer to them I think than a rat?

Cute, whatever it is (thyroid problem or no thyroid problem). 

[TC]

I found the picture on a Russian web site.  As far as I know it is a rat. I know that some species have a food pouch in their jaws which could account for the"thyroid " look.  I just liked the expression on its face. 

[Anthony Darby]

I found the picture on a Russian web site.  As far as I know it is a rat. I know that some species have a food pouch in their jaws which could account for the"thyroid " look.  I just liked the expression on its face. 

Definitely at rat, although it is hamsters that have food pouches.

[Paul T]

Thanks Anthony.  The ears and face shape just didn't look quite right.  Maybe another type or breed of rat that I just haven't seen before (and that wouldn't be surprising). 

[Anthony Darby]

Thanks Anthony.  The ears and face shape just didn't look quite right.  Maybe another type or breed of rat that I just haven't seen before (and that wouldn't be surprising). 

I agree Paul, but I suspect the pic has been widened a wee bit? I bred hooded rats at school for many years, but this one just isn't right.