Neotoma lepida
Maddie arrived in February 2023 after living at Weber State University for 4 years. She was born in captivity on April 4, 2019 as part of a study on Woodrat behavior. Her mother was trapped at Lytle Ranch in Utah. Maddie is a true packrat. She has many trinkets and toys in her enclosure which she adds to her pile of substrate.
- Average Weight: 4-5 ounces
- Length: 2.5 - 6 inches
- Lifespan in Wild: 2 years
- Lifespan in Captivity: 6 - 10 years
Fascinating Facts:
The desert woodrat is a species of pack rat native to desert regions of western North America. Called Woodrats, Packrats, and even "Trade-rats," these creatures are known for picking up shiny objects around camps and rural residences and taking them home to adorn their nest. If a woodrat has a nut or something in its mouth, it may drop that item and pick up the shiny new thing -- hence the name "trade-rat.
