Santa Fe Rice Rat in Galapagos

Name: Galapagos Small Fernandina Rice Rat
Family: Muridae
Scientific Name: Oryzomys bauri
Length: Up to 20 cm (7.8 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, particularly in the arid zone. Confined to Santa Fe Island, where it is free from the depredations of Black Rat. Breeding rakes place during the warm / wet season.

Identification:
The Santa Fe Rice Rat is a small, brown rat with a pointed nose; long legs; long, pale but black-soled hind feet; and pale underparrs. They have large, rather bulging eyes and the ears are large and sparsely-haired. The tail is about the same length as the head and body, and is slender and naked.

Identification:
Unafraid of humans but active principally at night and therefore rarely seen by visitors. When active, they spend their time on the ground.