Final answer:
Norway rats are known for having a b. tail shorter than their body, small ears, and a blunt snout. They have a relatively fast reproductive rate and a strong reliance on the sense of smell, which are traits not associated with the animals described in the details provided about various rodent species.
Step-by-step explanation:
The description provided for the Norway rat indicates that it is markedly different from the animals mentioned in the details, which are various rodent species with their unique characteristics. Norway rats are known for having a tail shorter than their body, small ears relative to their size, and a blunt snout rather than a pointed nose. They do not have a tail like a lion's nor is their tail used for balancing like an African monkey as described in the details.
Moreover, their reliance on the sense of smell is not significantly reduced as suggested, and they possess a relatively fast reproductive rate which contrasts with the description of a relatively slow rate. Therefore, when characterizing a Norway rat, option b) tail shorter than body is the most accurate from the choices provided.