- The alpine woolly rat occupies a specific type of habitat, i.e. alpine and subalpine forests. These habitats are rapidly disappearing due to various factors such as deforestation and climate change.
Introduction of non-native predators
- The introduction of non-native predators such as feral cats, dogs and weasels has put immense pressure on the population.
Disease
- Rats are highly susceptible to diseases, and the introduction of new diseases can spread rapidly through the population, leading to population declines.
Hunting
- The alpine woolly rat is hunted for its fur and meat, further reducing its population numbers.