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Western Wood Rat

Western wood rats construct nests, known as middens. These are similar to those of water-dwelling beavers and are constructed of scavenged bottle caps, shingles, paper, hide, feathers and shotgun shells, among other found waste. Western wood rats are also commonly referred to as pack rats and trade rats.

While western wood rats are most common in the western United States and northern Mexico, they are adaptable and are also known to inhabit areas in the eastern United States. Their presence has been noted as far north as Canada. They reside primarily in rocky areas and are active year-round.

These rats grow up to 14 inches from nose to tail. Western wood rats are gray in color and feature bushy tails. The western wood rat's predators include coyotes, weasels, bobcats and owls. Western wood rats are solitary and nocturnal in nature. As such, they are rarely seen by humans. 

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