Plains Rat
Pseudomys australis
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 19/09/2012
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 25/07/2015
Population trend: Decreasing
Other names: Palyoora, Plains Mouse
Priority Species? No
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
The Plains Mouse is an Australian native murid rodent weighing between 30 and 50g. The species is one of the largest rodents still inhabiting the arid zone and is grey to grey-brown above and white or cream below. The tail is also bicoloured being brown/grey above and white underneath.
Threats
Threatening processes have not been clearly identified for the Plains Mouse but it is suggested that predation and habitat degradation due to intensive stock grazing may significantly impact their colonies.