Red Malagasy island rat
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Red Malagasy island rat ( Nesomys rufus ) |
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| Nesomys rufus | ||||||||||||
| Peters , 1870 |
The red Madagascan island rat ( Nesomys rufus ) is a rodent species from the group of Madagascar rats (Nesomyinae), which is endemic to Madagascar .
features
The red Malagasy island rat resembles a mouse in appearance. It has a soft fur , which is colored red-brown on the upper side, the flanks and legs are red, while the throat and belly are colored white. The hind limbs are relatively long compared to other mice and the three middle toes are enlarged, suggesting an at least partially hopping lifestyle. It is an excellent climber because its sharp claws allow it to cling to smooth trunks.
Red Malagasy island rats reach a head-trunk length of 19 to 23 centimeters, a tail length of 16 to 19 centimeters and a weight of 150 to 225 grams.
Distribution and habitat
The habitat of these animals are rainforests and forests, which can be populated from sea level up to an altitude of 2300 meters. They prefer to go to higher altitudes in northern and eastern Madagascar. Red Malagasy nesomys are territorial, but the 0.4 to 1.4-hectare can territories overlap.
Way of life
They are active during the day and at dusk. Resting places are mostly earthworks into which they withdraw even in case of danger. The earthworks can have several entrances and are lined with plant material.
Their diet consists of small invertebrates, buds, fruits and seeds.
Reproduction
Nothing is known about their reproduction. However, it is believed that the mating season is not limited to a specific time of year. Therefore, year-round reproduction is possible, in which, as is usual with rats, several young animals are thrown in a nest. The nest should be in the inhabited earthworks and be appropriately softly padded.
literature
- Ronald M. Nowak: Walker's Mammals of the World. 2 volumes. 6th edition. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore MD et al. 1999, ISBN 0-8018-5789-9 .
Web links
- Search for "Nesomys" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species .