Uromys caudimaculatus (Krefft, 1867)

Nomenclature and Classification

The giant white-tailed rat, with the scientific name Uromys caudimaculatus (Krefft, 1867), is an Australian rodent.

Distribution

It is native to the tropical rainforests of north Queensland, while its subspecies live in New Guinea and the Aru Islands.

Size and Weight

This species is one of the largest rodents found in Australia, and adults can reach a weight of up to 1 kilogram.

Body Coloration

Its upper body is grey-brown, and its underparts range from cream to white.

Tail Morphology

It has a long, hairless tail, and the distal part of this tail is white.

Breeding Period

Breeding for this species starts in September or October, and reaches its peak in December and January, which is the height of the wet season.

Gestation and Litter Size

Gestation lasts 36 days, after which a litter of two to three young is born (litters of four are rare).

Juvenile Development

The young stay with their mother for approximately three months.