----------
> From: Molly Morris <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: So mean(was available gerbils free!)
> Date: 18 June 2000 20:36
>
> This is so mean because rats are smart and sweeter than gerbils at least
> domestic rats. Rats can learn their names and tricks. They also will lick
> people. Gerbils are cute and sure are sweet and easy to breed and care
for,
> but we all know that they aren't the world's smartest pets(but that makes
> them cuter). Gerbils that look like rats must be adorable!-Molly
>
Well, rats are more intelligent than gerbils in the conventional sense but
having both species, there is one thing where gerbils appear far more
intelligent and it makes them much better pets. It is their curiosity.
Rats are suspicious of anything new. Put an new toy in a rat cage and it
can be a week before they try it out. Gerbils, however, will seize on the
toy right away and see what they can do with it. Much more satisfying for
their owners.
Also the behaviour of rats and gerbils varies when you give them the free
run of a room. The rats skulk round the edges. The gerbils run round
everywhere having a good look at everything and are not afraid to go right
into the middle of the room. Now if you sit down on the floor, I can
guarantee that within minutes the gerbils will be running all over you.
They will have great fun, climbing up to your shoulder and then sliding
down your back. But the rats won't. Sure if you go near enough to them so
they can smell you and call their names, then they will come for a stroke
but they will not play with you like the gerbils.
If you want a pet that combines the intelligence of the rat with the
intelligence of a gerbil, then I recommend my personal favourites, the
shaw's jird. They are just perfect pets
Sue
