Question

squirrel talk
many people consider squirrels to be a nuisance because they can cause
mischief in their yards. some people even go so far as to call squirrels
\vermin.\ but is the use of this term justified? merriam - webster provides
three definitions for the word vermin, none of which fairly or accurately
describes the common squirrel. the first definition is \birds and mammals
that prey on game.\ this classification can be immediately discarded, as
squirrels mostly eat plants and insects. the second definition is \animals that
at a particular time and place compete (as for food) with humans or
domestic animals.\ obviously, this is not applicable to squirrels, either, since
their needs and diets are so different from ours. the third way merriam -
select the evidence that the author provides for the following supporting claim: squirrels
arent in the same family of rodents as pests like mice and rats.
squirrels are larger than mice and rats but smaller than prairie dogs and
woodchucks.
if a squirrel gets into someones home, it is unlikely to bite unless it is
touched or cornered.
squirrels are in the family sciuridae while mice and rats are classified as
muridae.
all rodents are mammals that belong to the order rodentia, so they are
related.

Explanation:

To determine the correct evidence, we analyze each option:

• The first option compares sizes, which doesn't relate to family classification.
• The second option is about a squirrel's behavior, not family.
• The third option states squirrels are in Sciuridae and mice/rats in Muridae, directly showing different families.
• The fourth option says all rodents are related, which doesn't support they're not in the same family.

Answer:

C. Squirrels are in the family Sciuridae while mice and rats are classified as Muridae.