What do water rats look like? - briefly
Water rats are medium‑sized rodents with dark, water‑repellent fur, a flattened, scaly tail, partially webbed hind feet, a blunt nose, and small rounded ears. They usually measure 30–45 cm in total length, including a 15–20 cm tail, and weigh 300–500 g.
What do water rats look like? - in detail
Water rats are medium‑sized, semi‑aquatic rodents typically measuring 25–35 cm in head‑body length, with tails nearly as long as the body. Their bodies are covered with dense, water‑repellent fur that ranges from dark brown to reddish‑brown on the dorsal side, while the ventral surface is lighter, often gray‑white. The fur is coarse on the back and softer underneath, providing insulation and buoyancy.
Key physical traits include:
- Tail: Broad, laterally flattened, and heavily scaled; functions as a rudder for swimming and a prop for balance on land.
- Limbs: Short, robust fore‑ and hind‑feet equipped with partially webbed toes; webbing enhances propulsion in water.
- Ears and eyes: Small, rounded ears set low on the head; eyes are relatively large, positioned high to allow vision while mostly submerged.
- Whiskers (vibrissae): Long, stiff, and densely packed around the snout, serving as tactile sensors for locating prey underwater.
- Nasal passage: Nostrils can close tightly, preventing water entry during submersion.
- Dentition: Sharp, chisel‑like incisors with a continuous growth pattern, suitable for gnawing vegetation and crushing crustaceans.
Species variation is modest but noticeable. The Australian water rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) displays a darker, almost black dorsal coat and a longer tail relative to body length. The New Zealand water rat (Hydromys neobrittanicus) features a more pronounced reddish hue and slightly larger hind feet, reflecting adaptation to colder, faster‑flowing streams.
Overall, the morphology of water rats reflects a balance between terrestrial agility and aquatic efficiency, with specialized tail, webbed feet, and sensory whiskers enabling proficient swimming, diving, and foraging in freshwater habitats.