Allegheny Woodrat

Scientific Name: Neotoma magister

Order: Rodentia

Family: Cricetidae

Conservation Status

About

The Allegheny Woodrat is one of the most threatened rodent species in the continental United States and is considered a “species of concern” under the Fish and Wildlife Service. Because of the role Allegheny woodrats play in their ecosystems, a variety of programs, many of which are located here in PA, have been established to increase their populations.

Find me at EPZ

Location: Trail of the Jaguar exhibit, adjacent to the barn

Arrived at EPZ: Templeton - Arrived May 2025

Habitat & Range
The Allegheny woodrat can be found along the Appalachian Mountain range, which includes a large part of Pennsylvania.
Identification
These medium-sized rodents have large, naked ears which contrast their dark grey fur.
Diet
Primarily vegetarians.
Reproduction & Lifespan
These rodents tend to breed between early spring and fall an will have a range of 2 - 4 babies with each litter.
Fantastic Fact
The Allegheny woodrat is known to store food caches and eats about 5% of their body weight in a single day!

Allegheny Woodrat

Conservation Status

About

Find me at EPZ

Habitat & Range

Identification

Diet

Reproduction & Lifespan

Fantastic Fact