11002-18322 Ship rat (Rattus rattus) this is the 'frugivorus' colour morph with yellowish-grey back and white to yellowish-cream belly. It is widespread in the North Island, but is also present in Dunedin, and on Otago Peninsula. Ship rats are the commonest rat in New Zealand, they reach their greatest abundance in lowland forests, and are found in all forest types. They are also found in parks, hedgerows, farmland, and buildings. Their climbing ability means that their habitat is three dimensional incorporating everything from the ground to the treetops. North East Valley, Dunedin *
11002-18421 Ship rat (Rattus rattus) pair with a rat-predated Powelliphanta land snail. The ship rat’s diet is very broad, incorporating plant and animal material, refuse, and stored food. Ship rats can be wary of new objects and may be initially cautious when a new food is presented. They like to feed under shelter and will often hoard food. They are the commonest rat in New Zealand *
DSC_2689 Ship rat (Rattus rattus) lateral view of skull prepared by George Holley. Ship rats are the commonest rat in New Zealand, they reach their greatest abundance in lowland forests, and are found in all forest types. They are also found in parks, hedgerows, farmland, and buildings. Their climbing ability means that their habitat is three dimensional incorporating everything from the ground to the treetops. Otago Peninsula *
