Gambian Pouched Rat
Cricetomys gambianus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Rodentia · Nesomyidae
About
The Gambian pouched rat, also commonly known as the African giant pouched rat, is a species of nocturnal pouched rat of the giant pouched rat genus Cricetomys, in the family Nesomyidae. It is among the largest muroids in the world, growing to about 0.9 m (3 ft) long, including the tail, which makes up half of its total length. It is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal to Kenya and from Angola to Mozambique from sea level to 2,000 m (6,600 ft).
Fun Fact
Gambian pouched rats have been trained by the organization APOPO to sniff out landmines in former war zones and detect tuberculosis in sputum samples — far faster than conventional tests.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Forests and savannas
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
5-7 years
Threats
- Illegal Logging
- Habitat Fragmentation