Nutmeg (pictured) is slightly darker in color than Cinnamon!

Cinnamon and Nutmeg may be named after spices, but they sure are sweet! These four-month-old Dumbo rat sisters came to us earlier this fall and are now settled into their new home behind the scenes at the Zoo.

Dumbo rats are a breed of domestic rat named for—you guessed it—their characteristically large ears. They typically only weigh around a pound and a half and can be found in a variety of coat colors and patterns. At the Zoo, Cinnamon and Nutmeg are fed specialized “rat pellets” as well as a mix of vegetables—keepers say that corn and peas are their favorites!

Rats are renowned for their intelligence and respond well to positive-reinforcement training. Keepers plan to showcase the rodents’ natural climbing and swimming abilities by building a rat-friendly “obstacle course.”

Cinnamon and Nutmeg will be featured in our virtual and onsite education programs soon. For the chance to meet these adorable sisters, click here to sign up for a class!