Physiology
Rattata is a small, but unspecialized rodent. Its most notable feature is its large teeth. Like most rodents they grow continuously throughout its life, and must be constantly worn down by gnawing. It has long whiskers and a long, slightly curled tail. Rattata has purple fur on its back, and cream colored fur on its stomach. This coloration (dark on top, light on bottom) is a common protective mechanism for many small animals.
Gender differences
A female has shorter whiskers.
Special abilities
Rattata have very basic survival needs, permitting them to thrive in nearly any environment. Because they reproduce so quickly, a pair of Rattata can quickly colonize an area.
Behavior
Rattata have a fast metabolism. As a result, it spends most of its fast-paced life looking for food. Thanks to their sharp fangs, they are able to eat nearly anything. However, because they constantly need to chew on hard material to keep their teeth at a manageable length, it is hard to tell if they are actually eating something, or merely gnawing on it. When they are threatened, Rattata can deliver a powerful bite. In addition to its highly unspecialized diet, Rattata will also build their nests virtually anywhere. They are a common sight in many places, and can become a nuisance due to their rapid reproductive rate. It is said that for every one Rattata, forty other are hidden somewhere. Most young Trainers will train Rattata due to their easy accessibility.
Habitat
Rattata naturally live in plains and savannas. However, they are found in most areas due to their ability to survive nearly any environment.
Diet
Main article: Pokémon food
Rattata are not picky when it comes to food, and will eat nearly anything edible.
Rattata's name originally had a "K" at the end, but it was dropped.
Origin
It appears to be based on a rat.
Name origin
Rattata's name obviously incorporates rat into it, but the etymology of tata is not as clear. Rat-a-tat is the sound of knocking on wood or the sound a Tommy gun makes. It could also be a combination of rat and attack. Koratta is derived from the prefix 小 ko, small, and rat.
In other languages
- German: Rattfratz
- French: Rattata
- Korean: 꼬렛 Kkoret
- Chinese (Taiwan): 小拉达 Xîao Lá Dá - Transliteration of Rattata's Japanese name, Koratta. Literally "little Ratta (Raticate's Japanese name)".
- Chinese (Hong Kong): 小哥達 Xîao Ge Dá