Dusky-footed Woodrat

Dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes) is a native rodent that looks like common rat species, but has larger ears and eyes, softer coats, furred tails, and dark-colored feet. Around 16 inches long, their tails account for nearly half that length. Commonly called "packrats," they build large, domed dens up to five feet high and eight feet in diameter. The big den helps protect from predators such as coyotes, owls, hawks, and bobcats. They sometimes build satellite dens in trees, and their dens are often found in clusters forming "communities." Found in California and western Oregon, usually in coast live oak forests and native willow trees, with thick underbrush and cover. Dusky-footed wood rats eat fungi and plants, including seeds, fruits, and greens. They are nocturnal and retrieve food at night, sometimes bringing it back to the nest for storage.