Rodents, which includes house mice, Norway rats and roof rats, are nocturnal creatures. They are active at night, with most activity occurring shortly before dawn and at dusk. They have poor vision but make up for it with excellent senses of touch, taste, smell and hearing. Their highly sensitive whiskers (vibrissae) guide them along walls and objects.

Rodents are omnivorous feeders, eating both plant and animal matter, though roof rats and house mice show a preference for certain types of food. All three in varying degrees can climb and swim.