Ep 13. Rats

The episode "Rats" from season 15 of Modern Marvels is a fascinating look at one of the most despised creatures on earth - rats. From their history as carriers of the bubonic plague to their incredible adaptability and intelligence, this episode leaves no stone unturned when it comes to these often maligned rodents.

The episode begins with a look at how rats have impacted human civilization throughout history. From Egypt to Rome, rats have always been around, lurking in the shadows and causing havoc wherever they go. As the episode progresses, we learn more about how rats helped to spread the bubonic plague throughout Europe in the 14th century, killing millions of people in the process.

But this episode isn't just about the negative impact that rats can have on humans. We also learn about the incredible adaptability and intelligence of these creatures. For example, did you know that rats are able to swim up to half a mile in open water or that they can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter?

The episode also takes a close look at the anatomy of rats, examining everything from their teeth and claws to their incredibly sensitive whiskers. Through a combination of animation and real-life footage, viewers are able to see these fascinating creatures up close and personal.

One of the most interesting parts of the episode is the section on rat behavior. We learn about how rats live in complex social structures and communicate with each other through a variety of means, including verbal cues, scent marking, and alarm calls. We also see how rats navigate the world around them, using their powerful sense of smell to find food and avoid danger.

Of course, no episode about rats would be complete without a discussion of their impact on human society today. We learn about the many ways that rats continue to cause problems, from the spread of disease to property damage and beyond. We also see how cities around the world are working to control rat populations through a variety of means, including traps, poison, and even trained rat-hunting dogs.

Overall, "Rats" is a fascinating look at one of the most ubiquitous and misunderstood creatures on earth. Whether you love them or hate them, there's no denying the impact that rats have had on human civilization throughout history. This episode of Modern Marvels provides a comprehensive and engaging look at all aspects of rat behavior and biology, making it a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand these fascinating creatures a little better.