Galapagos Large Fernandina Rice Rat

Name: Galapagos Large Fernandina Rice Rat
Family: Muridae
Scientific Name: Nesoryzomys narboroughii
Length: Up to 35 cm (14 in)
Weight: 40 to 80 g

Category: Rodents
Endemic Species: Large Fernandina Rice Rat, Santa Fe Rice Rat, Santiago Rice Rat and the Small Fernandina Rice Rat

Before the arrival of man, the only species of rodent to occur in Galapagos were the rice rats. There were formerly seven species, all endemic to the archipelago, but the introduction of the ubiquitous Ship Rat is believed to have led to the extinction of three of these species. Rodents are small to medium-sized furry mammals with long scaly tails, pointed faces and short, round ears.

Locally common throughout the island, particularly in the arid zone. Confined to Fernandina Island. Little is known about the biology or ecology of this species, although it is believed to breed principally during the warm/ wet season.

Identification:
Considerably larger than the Small Fernandina Rice Rat, from which it is distinguished by its paler, grayish-black fur with pale underparts, and white feet. The tail is about the same length as the head and body.

Behavior:
Active at night and therefore rarely seen by visitors during a Galapagos cruise; feeds on the ground.