What are the primary components of a rodent's diet?

A rodent's diet primarily consists of grains and seeds, which provide essential carbohydrates. Rodents are omnivorous, meaning they can consume a variety of food sources; however, they have a strong preference for grains due to their availability and energy content. This dietary choice is not only practical but also aligns with their natural foraging behavior.

While nuts, plants, and vegetables are certainly a part of many rodents’ diets, grains and seeds are more fundamental components. Nuts may provide additional fats and proteins, while vegetables and various plants contain fibers and sugars. Thus, focusing on grains and seeds reflects a more accurate understanding of what constitutes the core of a rodent's diet.

The other options, involving fruits and meats or insects and small animals, do not represent the primary dietary focus for the majority of rodent species, even though some rodents may occasionally consume these items depending on their environment and food availability.