The Sonoran Woodrat inhabits the thorn scrub and columnar cactus forests of Sonora, Mexico, where it builds its den among the bases of large cacti. It is one of the larger woodrat species and tolerates the xeric conditions of the Sonoran Desert by relying on succulent cactus pads for water. The species was described by Elliot Coues in the 19th century.
Habitat
Sonoran Desert thorn scrub and cactus forest
Diet
Cactus, seeds, and desert shrub material
How common
Uncommon
Not certain it is a Sonoran Woodrat? What animal is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Sonoran Woodrat sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Sonoran Woodrat?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states
More mammals
Sorex ugyunak
Sorex ugyunak
South American Coati
Nasua nasua
Southeastern Myotis
Myotis austroriparius
Southeastern Pocket Gopher
Geomys pinetis
Southeastern Shrew
Sorex longirostris
Southern Bog Lemming
Synaptomys cooperi
Southern Broad-footed Mole
Scapanus occultus
Southern California Pocket Gopher
Megascapheus nigricans