Orkin Exterminator & Termite Control

Types of Rodents

Three distinct rodent types have been identified. These types are a result of difference in internal anatomy. They are primarily skeletal and are only identifiable through autopsy.

Sciumorpha rodents are known for a difference in shape of the infraorbital canal. In these rodents, the medial masseter muscle doesn't pass through the infraorbital canal. Chipmunks, marmots, woodchucks, squirrels, prairie dogs and gophers belong to this rodent type.

Myomorpha rodents are known for the formation of their jaws and molar teeth: the medial and lateral masseter muscles of these rodents are displaced forward. Myomorpha rodents are extremely adept at gnawing. There are over 1,000 rodents belonging to this type. Among them are common house mice, rats, gerbils, hamsters, lemmings and voles.

Hystricomorpha rodents are named for the arrangement of the masseter muscle of the jaw and the zygomatic arch of the skull. In these rodents, the master medialis is enlarged. Some rodents belonging to this type include the porcupine, capybara, agouti, guinea pig and chinchilla.

Mole Rodents

Desert Rodents

Rainforest Rodents