Dassie Rat

Petromus typicus

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Rodentia · Petromuridae

About

The dassie rat is an African rodent found among rocky outcroppings. It is the only living member of its genus, Petromus, and family, Petromuridae. The name "dassie" means "hyrax" in Afrikaans, and the two animals are found in similar habitats. Petromus means "rock mouse" and dassie rats are one of many rodents sometimes called rock rats. The family and genus names are sometimes misspelled as Petromyidae and Petromys.

Fun Fact

It is the only living member of its genus, Petromus, and family, Petromuridae.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Restricted to rocky outcrops in Namibia, parts of Angola, and northwest South Africa.

Diet

Eat fruits, seeds, and leaves.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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