Vertebrates

Browse our Q&A about birds, eggs, nests, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals of the Central Coast and Channel Islands.

What species of woodrat is this?

I photographed this dead woodrat on San Marcos Foothills Preserve on May 2, 2022. I'm wondering if it is a Dusky-footed Woodrat.

Barbara, Santa Barbara - June 15, 2022

Curator Response

Hi Barbara,

This looks like a Big-eared Woodrat (Neotoma macrotis). It appears to be missing about 1/3 of the tail.

Stay curious,

Curator Emeritus of Vertebrate Zoology Paul Collins, M.A.

All Questions