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Pic. John Gould [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons,
John Gould, F.R.S., Mammals of Australia, Vol. III Plate 25, London, 1863
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In the past year, while working at Carey Bay Wetland with its quite large tidal creek, landcarers have found dead three Native Water Rats (think of Rat in The Wind In The Willows). These are Australia’s largest rodent with scientific name Hydromys chrysogaster which refers to its golden belly fur, and were known as Rakali by Aboriginal people.
Native Water Rats are elusive and shy, semi-aquatic with partially webbed feet and very prominent whiskers. They are thought to fill the same niche in the environment as the Otter in the northern hemisphere.
It’s lucky we have any left as during the depression of the 1930’s they were hunted for their water repellent fur when a ban was placed on imported fur. Earlier, during the Bubonic Plague, a bounty was put on rats and many of the locals were killed although the imported Black Rat was the culprit (as shown in some photos of the time).
There is now a study underway in Sydney Harbour to observe them as it is thought they might be able to play a part in control of the Black Rat because of the larger size of the Rakali and its ability to defend territory if the invader can be reduced in numbers.
Feral cats and foxes are major predators but there is a also concern that they are being put at risk by coming into contact with baits aimed at the Black Rat, so care should be taken with placing of these baits.
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