Greater Stick-nest Rat
Leporillus conditor
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 26/03/2008
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Near Threatened
Listed since: 31/12/2012
Population trend: Stable
Other names: Wopilkara
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 greater stick-nest rat is a large rodent with fluffy yellow-brown to grey fur on their back and cream fur below. A blunt snout, large, dark eyes and large, rounded ears are also characteristic of the species and distinctive white markings on their upper feet. When resting, the species sits in a hunched position that is similar to the stance of a rabbit. Greater stick-nest rats are herbivores, feeding on the leaves and fruits of a wide variety of species, with a preference for succulent and semi-succulent plants�
Threats
Greater Stick-nest Rats are highly susceptible to predation by foxes and cats. Introduced herbivores would have exacerbated population declines by competing for food and trampling nests.