Rakali

Adventure step • Meet the species

Overview

The rakali (Hydromys chrysogaster), also known as the Australian water rat, is Australia's largest aquatic rodent and one of the continent's most fascinating mammals. With its streamlined body, which can reach up to 39 centimeters in length, and muscular tail adding another 30 centimeters, the rakali is perfectly adapted for life in the water. Its fur is thick and water-repellent with a characteristic color - golden-brown to grayish on the upper side and white to yellowish on the belly. The name 'chrysogaster' comes from Greek meaning 'golden belly'. This remarkable animal has evolved extraordinary adaptations for its aquatic lifestyle. Its hind feet are partially webbed, making it an exceptional swimmer. The soft white whisker tufts on its snout function as sensitive tactile hairs that help the rakali locate prey in murky water. Unlike many other aquatic mammals, the rakali doesn't produce oil to keep its fur dry, but instead uses air pockets trapped in its dense underfur. When diving, you can see silvery air bubbles surrounding its body. The rakali is a skilled hunter that feeds on a varied selection of prey. Its menu includes fish, crustaceans like crayfish and mussels, aquatic insects, frogs, and sometimes even small birds. It has powerful jaws and strong teeth capable of cracking shells from mussels and crayfish. The rakali has fascinating feeding habits - it often takes larger prey to favorite spots along the shore, so-called 'feeding platforms', where it can eat in peace. These sites can be identified by piles of shells and fish bones. Although the rakali was once common in waterways across Australia, populations have declined dramatically in many areas over recent decades. Habitat loss, water pollution, and invasive species such as feral cats and red foxes threaten its survival. The animal is now considered vulnerable in some states. The rakali plays an important role in aquatic ecosystems by controlling populations of crayfish and fish, and its presence is often a sign of healthy aquatic environments.