Ok so I'm thinking about starting my own colony soon. I'm probably just going to use two or three big free standing tubs (no rack) with wire mesh tops and all that good stuff. Most likely with 1.3-4 to start with.

Now for my questions, first if there are any criticisms/advise regarding my plan above.

Also what kind of rats (species/breed) do people recommend? I'm looking for rats that will make good breeders as well as good pets. I'm not really interested in ASFs.

I guess we'll open the floor with that but there will probably be more questions coming.