jyrsijöissä

Jyrsijöissä is a term that refers to rodents in Finnish. Rodents are a diverse order of mammals known for their continuously growing incisors, which they use for gnawing. This order, Rodentia, is the largest order of mammals, comprising over 40% of mammal species. Common examples of rodents include mice, rats, squirrels, beavers, porcupines, and guinea pigs.

These animals inhabit virtually every continent and a wide range of environments, from deserts and forests to grasslands and even urban areas. Their diet varies greatly, with some being herbivores, others omnivores, and a few even carnivores. Rodents play significant roles in ecosystems as both prey and seed dispersers, and some species have also had a notable impact on human societies, both positively and negatively.

The continuously growing incisors are a defining characteristic of rodents. These teeth grow from the base throughout the animal's life, allowing them to wear down as the animal gnaws on food or other materials. This adaptation is crucial for their survival, enabling them to process tough vegetation and prevent their teeth from overgrowing. Their reproductive rates are often high, contributing to their widespread distribution and success as a group.