Giant pouched rat
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Cricetomys ansorgei |
The giant pouched rats (genus Cricetomys) of sub-Saharan Africa are large muroid rodents. Their head and body length ranges from 25-45 cm (9-18 in) with scaly tails ranging from 36-46 cm (14-18 in). Females weigh between 1-1.5 kg and males have been known to reach nearly 3 kg (2.2-6.5 lbs).
[edit] Natural History
Giant pouched rats are only distantly related to the true rats, but are instead part of an ancient radiation of African and Malagasy muroids in the family Nesomyidae. They are named due to their large cheek pouches.
It has been suggested that females may be capable of producing up to 10 litters yearly. Gestation is 27-36 days. One to five young are born at time. Females have eight nipples.
The animals are nocturnal. They are omnivorous and feed on vegetation and invertebrates. They have a particular taste for palm nuts. They are coprophagous.
Both species become tame and are kept as pets. They are also an important food source in many African countries.
[edit] Species
- Emin's Giant Pouched Rat - Cricetomys emini
- Gambian Giant Pouched Rat - Cricetomys gambianus
[edit] References
- Nowak, R. M. 1999. Walker's Mammals of the World, Vol. 2. Johns Hopkins University Press, London.
