Dusky-footed Woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes) is in the Hamsters, Voles, Lemmings, and Allies family (Cricetidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 1,894 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in November.
Seasonal pattern in the national data: year-round resident. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.
When to photograph Dusky-footed Woodrat: observations by month (U.S.)
About Dusky-footed Woodrat
The dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes) is a species of nocturnal rodent in the family Cricetidae. They are commonly called "packrats" or "trade rats" and build large, domed dens that can reach several feet in height. Coyotes and other predators will attempt to prey on these rodents by laying waste to the dens, but the sheer volume of material is usually dissuasive. Occasionally, dusky-footed woodrats will build satellite dens in trees. Although these animals are religiously solitary,...From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
Dusky-footed Woodrat by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 1,809 | November | Oct–Sep |
| Oregon | 85 | June | Jun–Jul |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related mammals (Hamsters, Voles, Lemmings, and Allies)
Muskrat
Hispid Cotton Rat
White-footed Mouse
Eastern Meadow Vole
Western Deer Mouse
California Vole
Bushy-tailed Woodrat
Photography tips
- Keep a legal and safe distance: 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other large animals in national parks.
- Dawn and dusk are peak activity times for most mammals.
- Use your car as a blind on wildlife drives.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph Dusky-footed Woodrat?
Nationally, November has the most observations, with the main season from October to September.
Where is Dusky-footed Woodrat most often seen?
The most observations come from California, Oregon.