Water Mouse
Xeromys myoides
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 29/09/2021
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 25/07/2015
Population trend: Decreasing
Other names: False Water Rat, Yirrkoo
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 Water Mouse is a small rodents and are nocturnal foragers and will search for prey between low and high tides along exposed tidal flats and around the water�s edge. The Water Mouse makes unique and varied mud-based nests for refuge and breeding. These nests are permanent and important features, contributing to the stability of Water Mouse populations.
Threats
The primary threat to the Water Mouse is the loss, degradation, and fragmentation of freshwater and intertidal wetland. In the Northern Territory, coastal habitat change is occurring due to saltwater intrusion, spread of exotic pasture grasses, and impacts of feral animals and livestock (especially associated with intensification of pastoral activities). In Queensland, changes in hydrology and expression of acid sulphate soils are causing loss, fragmentation and degradation of habitat. The Water Mouse is also seriously threatened by feral predators, particularly in Queensland, where the Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) poses a severe threat to the species.