Giant Rats

These Rodents of Unusual Size are a good indicator that there is a environmental problem in Britannia. Giant Rats might be not a big threat in combat, but they carry all kinds of disease; one unlucky bite can be enough to cause a serious infection, which has to be treated at once. Because of this, Giant Rats are less of a mortal threat than they are a danger to the public health and the food stocks in the cities.

Giant Rats usually dwell in caves and dungeons, but can also be found in the wilderness, and often seek out food in human encampments.

Once established, Giant Rats changed very little in all installments they appear in. They first showed signs of carrying infectious disease around the time of Ultima V. The only other serious change was in Ultima IX, wherein the rodents became MUCH bigger.

Lore
''Over the centuries, the rodents of Britannia have grown ever larger (and hungrier) in the catacombs and tunnels which honeycomb this land. Natural agility and sharp teeth are these creatures' chief advantages. Even a single Giant Rat poses a significant danger for a lightly armed opponent, though an experienced warrior can slay a pack in as many blows as there are enemies. Of the rats which have bred in the Abyss, we have distinguished two varieties. The Giant Tan Rat, commonly found in the drier upper levels, is an aggressive beast with the disgusting tactic of leaping up in order to slash with its teeth at an enemy's throat.''