Long Rats

Rattus Serpentes, or ‘Long Rats’ (... not to be confused with Rat Snakes), as they have been dubbed by the public, are a quirk-based species of rats that are believed to have originated from the sewers of New York City as the result of a single Brown Rat developing a Garter Snake quirk and breeding.

The most distinguishing feature of the long rats are their long, snake-like bodies that are covered in fur, and typically capable of growing between 8 to 54 inches (46 to 137 cm) as long as they are of the Garter Snake quirk variety, and not a more uncommon variant. Their spines are able to both tense- making it easier for them to walk with their legs without their stomachs scraping the ground- and relax, allowing them to slither on their stomachs and become more flexible, although usually still incorporating some use of their front legs. They also have a scaly texture to their tails, and two prominent fangs at the front of their mouths in the place of incisors.

From these two teeth, they can deliver a mild neurotoxic venom that is unable to seriously injure or kill a human. In very few, rare cases, some swelling and bruising have been reported. However, when encountering a Long Rat, unless it is a particularly aggressive individual, it is highly unlikely for them to strike unless provoked. Some in more highly populated areas are known to be quite tame as the result of being fed scraps by locals- this, and their low-maintenance, truly omnivorous diet, has led some people to attempt to keep them as pets, but this is highly advised against, as long rats are typically social creatures that prefer to be in packs, and roaming the sewers and streets, as well as frequently known to carry diseases. ​​

As they are still a fairly new species, not much is known about them yet, but so fair their effect on the ecosystem seems to be nothing concerning.