What sensory characteristic differentiates a woodrat from the Norway rat (*Rattus norvegicus*)?
Answer
The absence of the strong, musky odor often associated with the Norway rat
One crucial differentiator between woodrats and Norway rats (*Rattus norvegicus*) is olfactory; woodrats consistently lack the strong, musky odor that is frequently associated with the Norway rat. Beyond odor, there are coat texture differences, as the woodrat generally possesses a duller, softer, less oily-looking coat compared to the Norway rat. While both species might inhabit similar general ecosystems, the woodrat typically prefers wilder settings, and their physical attributes, including the coat appearance and scent profile, help distinguish them reliably.
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