Jamaican Rice Rat
Oryzomys antillarum
Conservation Status
ExtinctMammalia · Rodentia · Cricetidae
About
Oryzomys antillarum, also known as the Jamaican rice rat, is an extinct rodent of Jamaica. A member of the genus Oryzomys within the family Cricetidae, it is similar to O. couesi of mainland Central America, from where it may have dispersed to its island during the last glacial period. Oryzomys antillarum is common in subfossil cave faunas and is also known from three specimens collected live in the 19th century. Some historical records of Jamaican rats may pertain to it. The species probably became extinct late in the 19th century, perhaps due to the introduction of the small Indian mongoose, competition with introduced rodents such as the brown rat, and habitat destruction.
Fun Fact
A member of the genus Oryzomys within the family Cricetidae, it is similar to O.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in many superficial, late Holocene cave deposits, some of which have been radiocarbon dated to within the last 1,100 years.
Diet
Diet of the barn owl (Tyto alba).
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Overexploitation