Species · GBIF taxon 2437729
Greater Bandicoot Rat
Bandicota indicaAlso known as Indian Bandicoot Rat, Large Bandicoot Rat
Greater bandicoot rats are formidable rodents that construct extensive burrow systems in agricultural fields, gardens, and urban outskirts. They are highly aggressive when cornered, emitting deep, pig-like grunts and bristling their shaggy blackish-brown fur to deter threats. These nocturnal giants play a significant ecological role as both agricultural pests and a major food source for larger predators.
NocturnalBurrowingAdaptable
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Rice Grains
- Freshwater Snails
- Tubers
Predators
- Reticulated Python
- Barn Owl
- Feral Dog
ThreatsPest control measures, habitat alteration, and hunting for food in some regions
HabitatsAgricultural fields, wetlands, suburban gardens, and urban drainage systems
Life span1 to 2 years in the wild
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyMuridae
- SpeciesBandicota indica
Native Introduced
Native range in olive; established introduced range in rust.
Interaction riskModerate
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is moderate
- Can deliver a severe defensive bite and carry zoonotic diseases; avoid cornering or handling.
- Why it is dangerous
- Carries pathogens like Leptospira and hantaviruses, and can inflict deep wounds with its large, powerful incisors.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Distinguished by its massive size, shaggy dark coat, and pig-like grunting sounds when threatened.
- What to do
- Never attempt to trap, corner, or handle wild individuals; contact local pest control if they enter dwellings.
Responsible observation
- Observe from a distance: Watch for their nocturnal activity near field edges or compost heaps using a red light.
- Look for burrow entrances: Identify their presence by large soil mounds near waterways and crop fields.
Competitor (c) Martin Cooper, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Competitor Davidvraju / CC0 · cc0
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