My new pet rat has some unusual behavior

Question
We just got Simon (our rat) from a co-worker, it was explained that he has never been aggressive at all, though I am still afraid of being bit I haven't picked him up, but when I open his cage to try and get used to him and vice versa he tends to rock from side to side, and when I try and get my hand close to him, he darts very quickly towards my hand. Can you explain his behavior to me?? P.S. This is my first pet rat.

Answer
 The rocking side to side is a common behaviour with rats that have poor eyesight (usually rats with red or pink eyes).  Most rats have poor vision, but light-eyed rats have even worse vision and they do that rocking behaviour to judge depth perception.  Try it yourself: when you rock from side to side, objects that are closer to you seem to sway faster than objects that are farther away.  The darting towards you may be him being friendly but it could mean aggression if he is trying to bite you.  Many rats will be super friendly and dart towards their owners quickly, he is probably just trying to be petted.  If you are worried about him being aggressive, try letting him come out of the cage by himself before handling him, just petting at first, then picking him up.  Even aggressive rats are usually nicer outside of their cages.  Neutering can also help calm down male rats and make them better pets.

 I hope this answers your question, good luck with your rat!