Kingdom : | Animalia |
Phylum : | Chordata |
Class: | Mammalia |
Order : | Rodentia |
Family : | Muridae |
Genus : | Rattus |
Species : | R. rattus |
Zoological name : | Rattus Rattus |
Found In | Corbett, Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh National Park |
Physical appearance : Black Rat is a medium size rat. Upper parts of the Black Rat are gray brownish while the under parts are whitish gray in colour. Its total length lies between 16 22 cm and weigh around 70 300 g. It has relatively large ears and long pointed head. It has a dark, long and hairless tail. Black Rat is a good climber.
Presence in India : Black rats are mostly found in the Southern parts of India (Mysore). It can also be spotted in the Corbett, Ranthambore and Bandhavgarh National Park in India.
Habitat : They are mostly found in the areas where human lives. They are also found in woods, swamps, trees, cavity walls, around farms and on the roof tops.
Diet : Black rats are omnivorous. They feeds on fruits, cereals and grains. Black rats have the capacity of consuming 15 g of food and 15 ml of water in a day.
Reproduction : Black Rat reproduce throughout the year Females have the capability to produce upto 5 litters in a year. The gestation period lasts for 21 days. Young ones are born bald and within three months they are capable of reproducing. The females have ten nipples.
Conservation status : Black Rat has no conservation status. They are present in large number. They are termed as rodents.
Lifespan : Longevity of the Black Rat exceeds up to 2- 3 years.