A medium-sized rodent endemic to Appalachian rocky habitats. Populations have crashed dramatically due to raccoon roundworm and other pressures.

Also called: Eastern Woodrat (formerly), Pack Rat

Native status: Native; declining; state-listed in several states

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 19–23 cm (7.5–9 in); tail 15–22 cm
Weight220–485 g (8–17 oz)
LifespanWild 3–4 years
OrderRodentia
FamilyCricetidae

§ Encyclopedia

The Allegheny woodrat, is a species of "pack rat" in the genus Neotoma. Once believed to be a subspecies of the eastern woodrat, extensive DNA analysis has proven it to be a distinct species.

Source: Wikipedia — Allegheny woodrat Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Medium-sized rodent with soft gray fur, white belly, and hairy tail (vs. naked-tailed Old World rats); large dark eyes; long whiskers.

Similar species. Other woodrat species (different ranges). Norway Rat (introduced; naked tail, larger).

Voice. Generally silent; chittering and grinding teeth when threatened.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Acorns, hickory nuts, mushrooms, ferns, fruits, seeds, occasional invertebrates.

Behavior. Strictly nocturnal. Builds large stick "houses" within rock crevices, packing nesting chambers with shredded plant material. Collects and stores hundreds of unusual objects — bottle caps, coins, shotgun shells, bones — gaining the "pack rat" nickname. Range has contracted 60% since 1970 due to a combination of acorn crop failure (gypsy moth defoliation, Asian chestnut blight), raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) infection, and forest fragmentation.

§ Range

Appalachian Mountains

§ Habitat

Rocky outcrops, talus slopes, caves

§ Threats

Raccoon roundworm parasite, habitat loss, climate change.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the allegheny woodrat is currently classified as Near Threatened.

§ What helps

Don't leave pet food outside (attracts raccoons). Support Appalachian rocky habitat.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Allegheny Woodrat Working Group
  • The Wildlife Society
  • state wildlife agencies
  • IUCN Red List 2016