Alternate name
Native Water Rat
No images were found for this Species
Comment
Probably widespread along watercourses.
Stronghold population
False
Regionally significant/rationale
False
Restricted distribution/rationale
False
Historical abundance
Possibly declining
Overall distribution
Eastern, northern and southern Australia
Local distribution
Widespread. Associated with waterways in all habitats including lowland suburban canals
Known location
Bundall, Coombabah, Springbrook, Runaway Bay, Gaven, Southport, Guanaba, Natural Bridge
Other locality
Not known. This secretive native rodent is rarely trapped or observed. Evidence elsewhere suggests it is able to survive well in moderately degraded areas, wherever water and dense vegetation remain. Grassy foreshore vegetation surrounding the Robina Lakes has the potential to provide suitable habitat and conditions for this species.
General ecology
Streams, rivers, lakes, dams.
Specific ecology
Needs fringing vegetation for cover.
Threats
Destruction of wetlands by reclamation, draining, piping.
Diet
Primarily consists of crustaceans, insects and fish. Small birds, frogs, spiders and reptiles are occasionally eaten.
Biology
Grows to 40 cm in length, has partially-webbed hind feet, water-repellent fur and a tail that is tipped white.
Description
One of only two Australian mammals living in freshwater, the other being the platypus.
