Rats In New York City Subway

Let’s be honest: when you think of the New York City subway, your mind probably jumps to delays, mysterious puddles, or that guy playing the bongo drums at 2 a.m. But what about the real celebrities down there? The rats. Yes, those whiskered, tail-dragging commuters who have made the underground their kingdom. And guess what? They’re actually a reason to smile.

The Underground’s Most Resilient Stars

New York City rats are the ultimate survivors. They’ve been here longer than most of us, and they’ve mastered the art of adaptability. While we’re fumbling for our MetroCards, they’re casually darting between tracks like they own the place—because, let’s face it, they kind of do.

Think about it: a rat can squeeze through a hole the size of a quarter, climb a vertical wall, and swim through a sewer without breaking a sweat. That’s not just gross; that’s athletic excellence. If they had tiny gym memberships, they’d be gold medalists.

A Lesson in Finding Joy in the Unexpected

Here’s the secret: watching a rat scurry along the platform can be a delightful distraction. Instead of sighing at a delayed train, you can play “spot the rat” like it’s a mini safari. I once saw a rat drag an entire slice of pizza down the stairs—with determination. That pizza was bigger than the rat, and it wasn’t giving up. Talk about inspiration.

These little guys don’t get enough credit for their comedy. They’ll stop mid-scamper to groom their whiskers, then look at you like you’re the weird one. It’s a reminder that life underground doesn’t have to be grim—it can be a circus of furry hijinks.

The Science of Subway Rats (Yes, It’s a Thing)

Believe it or not, scientists love studying these creatures. Rats in the subway have taught us about urban ecology, disease resistance, and even how animals navigate complex environments. New York’s rats are so famous that they’ve inspired documentaries, art projects, and a whole tourism niche called “rat tours.” Who needs the Statue of Liberty when you can watch a rat balance on a third rail? (Okay, please don’t get too close to the third rail.)

One study found that subway rats have distinct personalities. Some are shy, some are bold, and some—like the one I saw wearing a Cheeto like a hat—are just fashion-forward. This isn’t a pest problem; it’s a character cast.

How to Be a Rat Whisperer (Sort Of)

Next time you’re on the platform, try this: don’t scream. Instead, observe. Notice how they communicate with little flicks of their tails. Watch how they time their dashes perfectly between trains. It’s like watching a nature documentary, but with more trash and less David Attenborough. You’ll start to see the subway as a living ecosystem, not just a concrete tunnel.

And here’s the uplifting bit: if a rat can thrive in the chaos of a New York subway—with its screeching trains, stampeding humans, and the occasional rogue pigeon—you can thrive in your chaos too. They don’t complain. They don’t procrastinate. They just go. That pizza slice isn’t going to nibble itself.

Why This Makes Life More Fun

Embracing the rat means embracing the weird side of life. Next time you see one, give it a nod of respect. You’re both just trying to get where you’re going. And honestly, isn’t it more fun to imagine the subway as a Rat City than a boring ol’ train system? Yes. It’s a secret world under our feet, and we get a front-row seat.

So here’s my challenge to you: the next time you’re waiting for the 6 train, look down at the tracks. Don’t grimace—grin. You’re sharing your commute with some of the most resourceful, hilarious, and underrated creatures on Earth. They’re not just rats. They’re New Yorkers, same as you. And they’re inspiring you to roll with the punches, chase your cheese, and never, ever give up—even if your cheese is a greasy slice of pepperoni.

Go ahead, learn more about them. Read a book. Watch a video. You might just fall in love with the city’s most unexpected residents. After all, if you can make it here—with the rats—you can make it anywhere.