Rodents in Southern Africa are an essential part of the region’s biodiversity, inhabiting a variety of ecosystems across countries like South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. This group includes a wide range of species, from the industrious African Giant Pouched Rat to the small but resilient Dassie Rat. These creatures play vital roles in their habitats, serving as both prey for predators and as important agents of seed dispersal and soil aeration. Despite their ecological importance, rodents often face challenges due to human activities and environmental changes. Their presence in Southern Africa highlights the delicate balance of ecosystems and the need for conservation efforts to protect these small, yet significant, members of the wildlife community.
Know your Rats
Black Rat (Rattus rattus)
also known as the "Roof Rat"
Between 12 to 19 cm in length (body)
Tail longer than body
Up to 230g in weight
Pointed nose, thin body, large eyes and big ears
Black to dark brown color
Huge range of habitats
Eats about 15g per day, drink 15 ml
Eats anything, but prefers fruit, seeds and nuts
Can produce 4 litters per year of around 5 to 16
Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
also known as "Sewer Rat
Between 15 to 28 cm in length (body)
Tail shorter than body
Up to 500g in weight
Slanted nose, big body, small eyes and big ears
Dark brown to grey brown color
Huge range of habitats
Eats about 15g per day, drink 15 ml
Eats anything, but prefers cereals
Can produce 5 letters per year of between 7 and 14
How rats feed
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