We didn’t plan to make radio history. We just wanted to introduce a couple of charming rats to the world. But when Misty’s Mischief teamed up with The Rock FM for a surprise live segment, things got mischievous.
It started with a simple idea: bring two of our adorable rat brothers—Comet and Finlay —to meet Rog, the morning show host. What we didn’t expect was his very loud reaction. As soon as the rats were revealed live on air, Rog let out a scream, dropped an F-bomb, and bolted away from the desk..
Meanwhile, our rats? Cool as cucumbers. Finn nestled into the crook of my arm while Comet explored the sound desk like a natural deejay. Bryce couldn’t stop laughing, and Mel—already a rat fan—was smitten. It was a perfect showcase of what we stand for: rats are curious, gentle, and full of personality—and they deserve better PR.
For us, it wasn’t just a viral moment. It was a chance to show New Zealand that rats aren’t scary—they’re smart, social, and surprisingly photogenic.
Penny was a very sweet and gentle rat. She 'mothers' all of the other rats. When Leonard was sick with respitory issues she acted as his nurse and cares for any rats who may be unwell or injured. She is part of the Big Bang Theory group and is the one of the two first girls I have ever kept.
Amy was very people orientated, and would follow me around the house. She enjoyed head scratches and cuddles. She is part of the Big Bang Theory group and is the one of the two first girls I have ever kept.
Raj came from a Tauranga breeder and was the last of his siblings looking for a home. He was very gentle and curious, he was quick to master any 'tricks' that will result in 'treats' as reward.
He is the last of the Big Bang Theory themed group.
Howard wasn't a fan of cuddles until his old age but he and Raj were best of buds and he got along so well with the Big Bang Gang.
Sheldon was purchased from a pet store for a young boy and developed (HA) around 1 year old when I took him on.
After a neuter and a lot of work with him he became a very sweet rat and bonded with the entire Big Bang Gang.
Leonard was from the same original family as Sheldon and he also had HA.
Len had life long respiratory issues and towards the end of his life his favorite place to be was on the couch snuggling under blankets with me.
Comet and his brother Finlay were adopted via TradeMe from an unplanned litter. He was super soft and so gentle. He enjoyed cuddles, rubs and hand wrestling. He enjoyed pea fishing and left a litter of pea shells in his wake. This is the start of the star/planet themed names.
Comets brother who was just as soft and sweet but more timid. Very playful but shy until he got comfortable with surroundings. He loved cuddle time and would 'check in' with me during free roam for a snuggle.
Daya was the only baby in her litter born on New Years Day to Scout of Scruffian's Rattery and was born right here at Misty's Mischief.
She was a curious wee thing and loves to come by for a quick cuddle and pat during free roam time before scampering off to do more 'rat things' like digging.
She developed a mamory tumour in Aug 2023 I monitored her quality of life and decided to haver her put to sleep in Dec 2023.
Sara came from White Rose Rattery and was is extremely playful, even for a young female. She was also very vocal and will let me know when she wants to come out and play.
She loved to hand-wrestle and was very adventurous and loves to explore the entire house.
She quickly became my 'heart rat' and became part of my story as well as the Mischief.
Gabe was Saraquel's brother also from White Rose Rattery and the first 3 months he was far more interested in other rats than me.
He and Chamuel were thick as theives and constantly trying to explore the rest of the house.
Sadly he developed H.A. and had to be neutered but he lived out his best pet life.
Barachiel camefrom Winnie's Rattery. Born in December 2021 she was our first mumma rat who had her litter in May 2022. She loved to climb and explore.
She was a wonderful mum and has reunited with the bonded girls back in the main cage without much fuss.
She was never a cuddly rat but would enjoy quick cuddles between doing rat things.
Compassionate and ethical rat breeders. Sustainably 3D‑printed accessories, wholesome rat food.