Metacognition in Rats
I just came across an interesting article about metacognition in rats: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/03/070308121856.htm Basically it says a study has shown that rats are capable of thinking about whether or not they know something. Here’s an excerpt:
Researchers have believed for some time that people and non-human primates are capable of “metacognition”–reasoning or thinking about one’s own thinking. There have been studies on birds about this kind of thinking process, but results thus far have been inconclusive. The new study is the first that shows a non-primate species has metacognition–a proposal that may well be controversial.
I always tell people how smart rats are, and no one believes me! Now I have proof. 
It’s an interesting article, and some of the “related articles” next to it are pretty interesting too.
P.S. An update on Pixel - I called the vet earlier to make an appointment, and the person who answered the phone said it definitely just sounds like an ear infection. Unfortunately, I can’t get him in to get some medicine until Thursday 
But at least it isn’t something more serious.
Tomorrow’s the day…
Only one day to go now. My sister’s going with me to get Pixel and Pica tomorrow morning. I just called the breeder and they said they’d reserve 2 little guys for me. I hope I have everything ready for them… I’m sure I’ll be making a quick trick to Petsmart when I realize I’ve forgotten something.
In the meantime, check out how cute my gerbils, Ares and Apollo are:
Meet My Rats!
Hello and welcome to my new blog all about my pet rats, and caring for rats in general. In less than 2 weeks I’ll be a new rat owner. I’ve been learning so much about caring for rats. I almost have their cage set up and I’m working on getting the food, bedding, toys, etc. ready for when I go pick up my new little boys - Pixel and Pica! (Yes, I know I’m a nerd for naming them that!)
Anyways, I’m really looking forward to getting my new little ratties. I already have 2 gerbils - Aries and Apollo. They’re great little pets.
I’ll be posting as many pictures as possible, and I’ll be posting about everything I learn. Hopefully anyone who is interested in getting rats will be able to benefit from my experience. I’ll be posting again soon with pictures of their cage set up!