Rumors about the African Giant Pouched Rat

Rat & Mouse Gazette: African Giant Pouched Rats...as Pets: "You may have heard rumors about the African Giant Pouched rat, or maybe you've seen a picture and thought how great it would be to have one of these majestic giants as a pet. Well, before you base your decision to obtain an African rat on what you already know about rats as pets, read on and learn about the lifetime commitment you are about to make - their lifetime, not yours.

The lifespan of the African Giant Pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus) can be more than seven years in captivity. That is quite a difference from the two to three year lifespan of our domesticated pet rats and, in itself, demands a much closer look at the responsibility aspects of keeping one as a pet. Add to that the fact that they are approximately 28 inches from nose to tail tip with an average weight of 3-1/2 to 4 pounds of solid muscle, and you may be getting into more than you bargained for."

Rumours or truth? you be the judge...