Rats
Identification of small mammals from photos is uncertain. It helps to have multiple photos, preferably with a scale in all images, showing: the ratio of tail-length to body-length; the nature of the ears, including how far the ear lobe will reach, in relation to the eye, when the ear lobe is folded forward; the pads under the hind feet; the fur above and below the body, any markings on the head or face; and the scales and fur on the tail.
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Discussion
Rattus sp.
In the mountains there are four rat species, R.rattus, R.fuscipes, Mastacomys fuscus and Rakali. Also the extremely rare Smoky Mouse is the size of a juvenile rat.
Here is a link to the CNM advice about identifying and managing small mammals, titled 'PHOTOGRAPHY OF SMALL MAMMALS FOR IDENTIFICATION' Rodents
Rattus rattus
Hydromys chrysogaster
Sorry to say that if it is a rat in that location it will be 99% sure to be a Black/Roof/Ship Rat (Rattus rattus). (unless it was transported from far away). But a good photo(s) will tell us for sure. Moribund rats near settlement are victims of anti-coagulant rodenticides. Alive or dead, they are lethal to owls and other birds which eat them. If it is still alive the best thing is to pick it up in a towel or other thick cloth, humanely kill it, or get someone to do that for you, then dispose of the carcass in some way that animals cannot get it. Black Rats are in most of the Canberra houses built more than 30 years ago, especially if there are chooks kept anywhere nearby, if birds are fed or if there are compost heaps. But they are often undetected.
Rattus rattus
Thanks for the advice re poison.
Rattus rattus
Significant sightings
Recent activity
Hydromys chrysogaster at Campbell, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Fyshwick, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Campbell, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Campbell, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Fyshwick, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Fyshwick, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Paddys River, ACT
Hydromys chrysogaster at Paddys River, ACT
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