Cotton Rats (Sigmodon hispidus)
Cotton Rats or “Hispid” Cotton Rat inhabits open dense areas across the state of South Carolina. They are found in urban areas and will utilize drainage areas, open grassy fields, fence rows, attics and crawlspaces of homes, and activity can occur both day and night, although mainly nocturnal. In areas of dense populations of Cotton Rats, damage can be severe, and agriculture damage can be costly. The Cotton Rat is the main carrier of the hantavirus strain Black Creek Canal virus (BCCV).
- Length: 8″-15″
- Weight: .8 ounces
- Diet: Opportunistic omnivores, eating both plant and animal matter.
- Breeding: Occurs year round.
- Gestation: 27 Days.
- Reproduction: 1-15 young born, 4 – 5 times a year.
- Habitat: Urban areas with the availability of food, water, and shelter.
- Legal Status: Common throughout South Carolina, non-protected species.
- Other Names: Hispid Cotton Rat, Rough Rat, Javalina Rat, and Field Rat.
- Interesting Facts: Cotton Rats will escape danger by diving under water, similar to the Muskrat, and will even dive to depths of 30 feet.
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