What Are Some Enemies of the Rice Rat?

The rice rat is a small rodent that can range from 7 to 12 inches in length. They are found commonly along the east coast of the U.S. and as far west as Kansas. Some subspecies of the rice rat are considered endangered due to loss of habitat and the number of natural and domestic predators.

  1. Barn Owl

    • The barn owl is a large, predatory bird which grows up to 20 inches in height with a wing span of over 3 feet. The species is widespread and found in Europe, Africa, Australia, South America and North America. They are found in a range of habitats such as forests and marshes as well as in urban areas. Hunting from atop perches, often tree branches, the owl uses excellent eyesight to spot small rodents such as rice rats. Once prey is spotted, the owl swoops down and grabs the animal with their powerful talons.

    Northern Harrier

    • The northern harrier, or marsh hawk as its also known, is a large bird of prey. It is a formidable predator, growing up to 24 inches in height with a wing span that can reach over 4 feet. The species is found throughout much of the northern hemisphere, including within the range of the rice rat. Using excellent eyesight, the bird watches the ground for small rodents, birds and reptiles. The bird glides overhead, spots its prey and drops at great speeds onto the animal, pinning it with their talons.

    Cottonmouth

    • The cottonmouth snake is a deadly hunter, found commonly in the rice rat's home range. Growing to lengths of 4 feet, they are pit vipers. They use heat sensitive pits between their eyes to track prey by its body heat. The snake feeds on various small mammals, frogs, birds and even baby alligators. When catching rodents such as the rice rat, the snake protects itself from getting bitten by biting the prey and letting it run off to die. It then follows the scent of the rodent, checking that it is dead before eating it.

    Coyote

    • Found throughout North America, Canada and Mexico, the coyote lives in all kinds of habitat. It is found commonly within the rice rat's range as it is at home in a desert, forest or urban setting. Coyotes will eat just about anything, and as part of a pack they will hunt large prey. Solitary animals will often scavenge from large animal carcasses and will hunt smaller mammals such as rodents. Using an excellent sense of smell, the coyote tracks small prey such as rice rats and stalks them until it is close enough to pounce on them with its front paws.