Komodo rat

The Komodo Rat ( Komodomys rintjanus ) is a rodent species from the group of Altweltmäuse ( Murinae ) and the only species of the genus Komodomys.

Komodo rats are medium sized Altweltmäuse. They reach a body length 13-20 cm and a tail length of 11-16 centimeters. Her thick fur is spiky at the back, it is colored sand color, the middle part of the head and back are darker than the sides. The hairy feet are white, the tail is also hairy.

These rodents are known only from the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. On Flores they are extinct on small islands as Rintjar, Padar, Lomblen, pantar and possibly Komodo they are still alive. Their habitat is forests, probably rather dry tropical forests. Hold mainly on the ground.

Due to its small distribution area and the progressive habitat destruction, the IUCN lists the species as "endangered" ( vulnerable ).