Behavioral Biology of Rats

The rat is the first mammalian species to have been domesticated primarily for scientific purposes. It is still one of the most common species involved in animal-based research. Nevertheless, deep knowledge of their natural, basic behaviors is not widespread among the research community. This chapter will describe the origin, habitats, and main behaviors of laboratory rats’ ancestor, the Norway rat. It will also discuss what can be done in the laboratory environment to enhance the expression of species-specific behaviors, increase positive and minimize negative experiences and affect, and promote animal welfare. Understanding behavior is instrumental to provide housing, care, and handling practices that promote species-specific behaviors and induce positive affect in laboratory rats.