Odd One Out — Rabbit, Rat, and Squirrel are rodents/lagomorphs with gnawing incisors; Mongoose is a carnivoran. Identify the odd mammal and justify.

Introduction / Context:
Mammalian classification by order reveals functional dentition differences. Three animals are rodents/lagomorphs adapted to gnawing; one is a small carnivore.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Rat: order Rodentia (gnawing incisors).
• Squirrel: order Rodentia.
• Rabbit: order Lagomorpha (similar gnawing adaptation, distinct order).
• Mongoose: order Carnivora (family Herpestidae).

Concept / Approach:
Separate by trophic morphology and order: gnawing rodents/lagomorphs vs carnivoran.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Rat → rodent.Squirrel → rodent.Rabbit → lagomorph (rodent-like gnawing).Mongoose → carnivoran → outlier.

Verification / Alternative check:
Diet: mongoose is primarily carnivorous (snake/rodent predator), while the others are predominantly herbivorous/omnivorous gnawers.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Rat, Squirrel, Rabbit: share gnawing adaptation and small-mammal niche distinct from carnivora.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “small size” defines a class; taxonomy and dentition offer the correct criterion.

Final Answer:
mongoose