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How Have Rats Outsmarted Us for So Long?

August 18, 2026 · 40 min

Show notes

Rats! For centuries, we've tried (and failed) to keep them under control, because not only are rats brave enough to swim out of toilets, they're also kind of brilliant. Find out how they foiled Pablo Escobar, why some rat owners let their pets play dentist, and why tiny trousers are their kryptonite. Featuring author and longtime friend of the show AJ Jacobs.

This episode originally aired on June 7, 2017.

Got a question or idea for the show? Call our hotline at (302) 405-5925 or email [email protected].

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Photo by Nikolett Emmert via Unsplash. Thanks, Nikolett!

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