Bandicota indica

(Bechstein, 1800)

Vernacular names
English : Greater bandicoot rat
French : Rat-bandicoot indien

Classification
Class : Mammalia
Order : Rodentia
Family : Muridae
Notes : There could be many subspecies but their status are unknown and still debated.

Identification
Very large rat species growing to 29 cm in body length with 30 cm long tail and weight of more than 1 kg. Dark grey brown fur on back, becoming grey on flanks. Long black hairs all around body. Tail is hairless, scaly and black.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in southern Asia, from most of India to southern China, Taiwan and south to Thailand and Vietnam. Introduced in Malaysia and Java. Lives in lowland swampy areas, rice fields, agricultural fields and cities.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species has a wide range and is locally very common. It can live in disturbed and man-made habitats. Considered as a pest and disease-carrier.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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