Have you seen this Cute Critter at Rolling Ridge?
- Rolling Ridge
- Sep 23
- 1 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
The Allegheny Woodrat has emerged as an animal of interest for Rolling Ridge Conservancy's residents, scientists, and state wildlife folks. Evidently, the Allegheny Woodrat (Neotoma magister) prefers rocky outcroppings associated with our mountain ridges, especially in mixed pine-oak forests.
As a Species of Greatest Conservation Need, according to the West Virginia State Wildlife Action Plan, the woodrat co-occurs with other species of interest that depend on similar habitats. Most notably, ruffed grouse, Appalachian cottontail, spotted skunk, timber rattlesnake and bobcat thrive together. So, scientists are interested in knowing where the Allegheny Woodrats reside, recognizing that they represent the potential for a host of other important species as well.
The Woodrat is a medium-sized, solitary, nocturnal rodent whose home range extends little more than a few hundred feet. Unlike the non-native Norway rat, the Woodrat has a much cuter tail covered in fur. Also known as pack rats, Woodrats will gather found objects and bring them home to their nests, including items that hikers may drop by accident.
The decline of this species is not completely understood but is likely associated with the loss of food sources such as the American chestnut which was lost to blight and oak trees diminished by moth-caused defoliation. Contributing factors may also be the “racoon roundworm” parasite, spread by racoon feces, and the fragmentation and destruction of habitat by encroaching roads and building.
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