![]() These includeīelieve it or not that are even more permutations! You can read our guide to rat colors here. This has made it possible for breeders to produce lots of different types. The gene for Dumbo ears can be combined with any of the genes for coat type or coloring. If you’ve seen a domestic top-eared rat, that’s basically the same size. Dumbo Rat weightĪ male weighs between 1 and 1.5lbs, and a female typically weighs between 0.5 and 1lb. Dumbo Rat sizeįrom the end of their nose to the tip of their tail, they can reach up to 18 inches long, with females usually being slightly shorter than males. In the case of Dumbo Rats, their ears sit lower on the sides of the head than other varieties of rat. According to the breed standard, fancy rat ears should be set far apart on the head, standing erect without any folds. The most striking feature of the Dumbo Rat is his protruding ears. So, all of today’s Dumbo rats probably share one common ancestor. Probably sometime in the second half of the 20th century. History doesn’t record the first Dumbo, but anecdotal evidence suggests the dmbo mutation first popped up somewhere in northwest America. This gives them their characteristic appearance. When a rat inherits two copies of the dmbo gene, the development of their jaw bones and ears is altered very early in the womb. Recessive genes are only expressed as physical characteristics when an animal inherits two copies – one from each parent. These rats owe their distinctive ears to a recessive gene called the dmbo gene. Nowadays rats with traditional ears are often referred to as “top-eared”, to distinguish them from Dumbo varieties. (Which is Rattus norvegicus, in case you were wondering). So they stick out sideways from behind their cheeks.ĭespite this difference, they are still the same species as all other domestic rats. Usually, rats’ ears are small and oval, and perched quite high on their heads.īut Dumbos’ ears are large, almost circular, and positioned much lower on their heads. You’ll hardly be surprised to hear therefore that Dumbo rats’ distinguishing features are their ears. Their name immediately evokes a mental image of their elephant namesake. It doesn’t take much imagination to guess what’s special about this little creature. Our readers’ most popular and frequently asked questions about the Dumbo Rat. Including a comprehensive guide to Dumbo rats as pets, Dumbo rat health and where to find adorable little baby Dumbo kittens. In this article we cover everything you need to know about the lovable Dumbo ear rat. They are also sweet natured, and easy to handle. What-ever I can do to make them stay with me a little longer I will.Dumbo rats are the same species as other rats, but have large, circular ears that are much lower on their heads than normal rats.įrom their nose to the end of their tail, they can measure up to 18 inches! They can weigh between 0.5 pounds, and 1.5 pounds, with males generally weighing more than females. I have many that last 3-5 years of age with-out any tumors and major health issues. I really feel the worst part of owning rats is that they just do not live long enough, it aches the heart. I have found what works for us here to allow the rats to be raised happy. There are MANY opinions and outdated information out there. I have been breeding for 20+ years and have learned so many things about rats and their care. I will not send more than one a month if at all. You may sign up for the newsletter by joining the website. I do try and send out a newsletter about things to come through the month, litters and what we may be planning. I may not always be available and many emails are often answered late in the evening or on weekends. My rats are raised in my home around our 'normal' day to day, work, play and life. Under "how to adopt" you will find information on adoption and our policies. On the "informational" tab you will find links and articles I enjoy. Please use the navigation bar at the top of this page to view our policies, and who may be available for adoption on the "available" page.
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