Mammals
Giant Jumping Rat
Hypogeomys antimena · also called malagasy giant rat, votsotsa
Bounding across the forest floor on long hind legs like a small kangaroo, a giant jumping rat retreats to an elaborate multi-chamber burrow at the first sign of danger, one of Madagascar’s largest and most unusual rodents.
Overview
The giant jumping rat, Hypogeomys antimena, is an Endangered rodent confined to the Menabe forest of western Madagascar. Its rabbit-like size, kangaroo-style hopping gait, and elaborate underground burrow system make it one of the most distinctive rodents found anywhere.
A rat the size of a rabbit
Far larger than a typical rat, the giant jumping rat ranks among the biggest rodents found in Madagascar, with long hind legs built for hopping rather than the scurrying run most rodents use to get around.
Status
Endangered, with a declining population confined to a single forest in western Madagascar, threatened by deforestation and predation from free-ranging dogs and introduced carnivores.
Giant Jumping Rat: common questions
Why does the giant jumping rat hop instead of run?
It moves on its long, powerful hind legs in a hopping gait similar to a small kangaroo, rather than running on all fours like most rodents, an adaptation suited to moving quickly across the forest floor.
How big does the giant jumping rat get?
It is one of the largest rodents in Madagascar, roughly the size of a rabbit, far bigger than a typical rat.
What kind of burrow does the giant jumping rat dig?
It excavates an elaborate multi-chamber underground burrow system with several entrances, which it uses for shelter, sleeping, and raising young.
Why is the giant jumping rat endangered?
It is confined to a single forest in western Madagascar, where deforestation and predation by free-ranging dogs and introduced carnivores have driven a continuing population decline.