Where does the marsh rice rat breed?
Breeding season for the marsh rice rat varies, but usually takes place between March and October. • Female marsh rice rats reach sexual maturity by six weeks of age. • Marsh rice rats nest under debris in areas above the high-tide mark. • Gestation lasts about 25 days. • The average marsh rice rat litter is three or four young, but may be up to seven. Marsh rice rats have several litters each year. • Young rice rats are born blind, naked and helpless, but by early in their second week of life, they open their eyes and are able to eat solid food. Other facts about the marsh rice rat: • Marsh rice rats are very skilled swimmers, and will often dive under water when threatened. • Marsh rice rats are mostly nocturnal. • The life expectancy for the marsh rice rat is generally less than one year.
