A small rat specialized for wetland habitats.

Native status: Native to southeastern US

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 11–15 cm; tail 12–17 cm
Weight40–80 g
LifespanWild 1 year
OrderRodentia
FamilyCricetidae

§ Encyclopedia

The marsh rice rat is a semiaquatic North American rodent in the family Cricetidae. It usually occurs in wetland habitats, such as swamps and salt marshes. It is found mostly in the eastern and southern United States, from New Jersey and Kansas south to Florida and northeasternmost Tamaulipas, Mexico; its range previously extended further west and north, where it may have been a commensal in corn-cultivating communities. Weighing about 40 to 80 g, the marsh rice rat is a medium-sized rodent that resembles the common black and brown rat. The upperparts are generally gray-brown, but are reddish in many Florida populations. The feet show several specializations for life in the water. The skull is large and flattened, and is short at the front.

Source: Wikipedia — Marsh rice rat Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium rat with grayish-brown back; pale belly; long tail.

Similar species. Other Oryzomys species. Hispid Cotton Rat (different shape).

Voice. Squeaks.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Insects, snails, plants, small vertebrates.

Behavior. Semi-aquatic rat of southeastern wetlands. Excellent swimmer.

§ Range

Southeastern US

§ Habitat

Salt marshes, freshwater wetlands

§ Threats

Wetland loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the marsh rice rat is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support wetland conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • American Society of Mammalogists
  • IUCN Red List 2016