Nevis Rice Rat
Pennatomys nivalis
Conservation Status
ExtinctMammalia · Rodentia · Cricetidae
About
Pennatomys nivalis is an extinct oryzomyine rodent from the islands of Sint Eustatius, Saint Kitts, and Nevis in the Lesser Antilles. The only species in the genus Pennatomys, it is known from skeletal remains found in Amerindian archeological sites on all three islands, with dates ranging from 790–520 BCE to 900–1200 CE. No live specimens are known, but there are several historical records of rodents from Saint Kitts and Nevis that could conceivably refer to Pennatomys. The animal apparently belongs to a group within the tribe Oryzomyini that includes many other island-dwelling species.
Fun Fact
Although there are no unusual adaptations in the known material, the animal possesses a combination of characteristics that distinguish it from all other known oryzomyines.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
To be updated
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Destruction
- Overexploitation