In "At Home: A Short History of Private Life," Bill Bryson shares a fascinating observation about rats stealing eggs. He describes how an exterminator, curious about the behavior of these clever animals, decided to observe them at night. He witnessed a surprising method of theft: one rat would hold an egg tightly with its legs, rolling onto its back, which allowed a second rat to grab its tail and pull it away to safety.

This behavior highlights the intricate social interactions among rats, showcasing their intelligence and teamwork. Bryson's narrative underscores not only the ingenuity of these creatures but also opens a window into the lesser-known aspects of domestic life and how various species cohabit human environments.