The California Kangaroo Rat is restricted to chaparral and grassland habitats in California and a small part of southern Oregon. It has four toes on its hind feet, distinguishing it from five-toed kangaroo rats. The species is not federally listed but has lost significant habitat to agriculture and urban development in the Central Valley.
Best time to see a California Kangaroo Rat
The best time to see a California Kangaroo Rat is April–August, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 114 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a California Kangaroo Rat? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent California Kangaroo Rat sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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