‘Herjan and his fancy hat.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
Rats aren’t exactly the first animals that come to mind when you think of the words ‘cute’ or ‘adorable’. For photographer Diane Özdamar however, these critters are anything but their negative stereotype—a perspective that she’s keen to share with others.
“I have been taking pictures of pet rats for years hoping to break the negative image that is often associated with these lovely animals,” Özdamar explains.
Her series ‘Fancy Rats’ feature the pet rats that belong to Özdamar as well as her friends. “They are actually highly intelligent social beings that love interacting with each other and their favorite humans. They are very friendly, smart, playful, they love cuddles and are very clean: many rat owners agree to compare them to tiny dogs.”
The accessories seen in the photos, save for the tiny black hat, were all handmade by Özdamar. She clarified that these could be easily removed and did not constrain the rats’ movements. “No animals were harmed during the making of these pictures,” assures the photographer, “the ladybug was also alive and well and flew away soon after the photo shooting.”
“If you ever want to adopt pet rats, please consider contacting your local pet shelter as there are many rats awaiting for a forever home. You must also adopt at least two rats of the same sex, rats absolutely need to have a friend from their own species.”
Preview highlights from the series below and see more here.
‘Tjall.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
‘Kjalarr.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
‘Lysander.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
‘Arkanys.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
‘Herjan.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
‘Feirefiz.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
‘Heimdall.’ Image by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission
[via Bored Panda, images by Diane Özdamar and featured with permission]