Vermont is home to two species of rat, the black and brown (or Norway) rat. Both of these rats were introduced and whereas the black rat headed out into the forest and became widespread thorughout the fields and forests of North America, the brown rat stayed near us and is most commonly found in urban areas.

The two rats at the Museum are both brown rats and were the result of an unexpected litter of pups born in a pet store in late 2023. Their mom was intended to be snake food but her new babies saved her and they all became pets instead. Pip and Maple are great representatives of this highly resourceful and misunderstood animal. Hopefully you will meet them soon!