Habits of the Eastern Wood Rat

The Eastern wood rat is large American rodent species that grows to more than 14 inches in length from nose to tail. It is a widespread, common species that has a gray coat with large rounded ears and bulging black eyes. It has white stomach fur and its tail is light brown on top and white on the underside.

  1. Habitat

    • The Eastern wood rat is found in a variety of habitats including swamp land, forests and open grassland. Generally, it builds a small nest out of twigs, vegetation and scavenged materials. The nocturnal rodent's nest is also used for raising young and storing food. A single rat's home range is generally no further than 70 feet from its nest. If given the chance, the wood rat makes its home in the abandoned burrows of other small mammals.

    Diet

    • The Eastern wood rat is almost exclusively vegetarian, with a diet consisting of fruits, seeds, acorns, nuts and various plants. They also occasionally eat small insects. The rat takes large amounts of food back to its nest in preparation for the cold winter months. The rats also collect items that catch the eye, such as shiny bottle caps and discarded jewelry. The water content in its vegetarian diet is generally enough to meet the rat's hydration needs, so it seldom drinks.

    Breeding

    • Male wood rats reach breeding age at about a year, with the females maturing faster and becoming fertile at 5 to 6 months. The average breeding season runs from February to August, although in warmer areas it happens year-round. Females give birth to between one and six young yearly, with the average pregnancy lasting a little more than a month. The young are generally mature enough to leave the nest at 70 to 90 days old. The average lifespan is 3 years, although individuals have been known to live up to 8 years.

    Defense Against Predators

    • The rodents are at risk from a number of predators including owls, foxes skunks and snakes. The rat's main defense is its nocturnal lifestyle, making it at risk only from the predators that hunt at night. The coloring of its fur makes the rat hard to spot in the dark. The rats also stay safe by not venturing far from the safety of the nest. The rat is also a fast runner and a proficient climber, helping it escape slower ground predators.