Wildlife Facts Cloud Rats, also called “cloud runners”, belong to the rodent family Muridae. They are called cloud rats because they live up in trees in the mountains. The 6 species of cloud rats are found ONLY in the Philippines. There are 2 types, the Giant slender-tailed cloud rats and the Bushy-tailed Cloud Rats. They are nocturnal creatures, solitary, timid and slow moving. Little is known about this unique animal. What is known about their biology comes from research of animals in captivity. In fact, one species was discovered in the Visayas only recently (1987). Of the 6 species, two species are feared to be extinct. Where do they live? Cloud rats are arboreal animals, which means they live up in trees. Therefore they have large feet designed for climbing and clinging. But the more common Northern Luzon slender-tailed cloud rat may inhabit cultivated areas, as long as there are remaining forests within the vicinity. What do they eat? Cloud rats are herbivorous animals, eating fruits, leaves and maybe even flowers and seeds. The species that lives in the cold weather of the mountains of Benguet and Ifugao feed mainly on pine buds and young cones of trees. They can grow up to 2.5 kilograms – the largest rats in the world! On the negative side, their large and meaty body is a good source of protein for the mountain people and they are heavily hunted. How long do they live? Life expectancy is not known. How do they care for their young? Being solitary animals, the males stay with females only for mating. The females give birth to a single offspring at a time. In a large hollow tree or log the young stays with the mother until the next young is born a year later. A newborn baby weighs about 100-150 grams. What dangers do they face? Cloud rats face the threat of habitat loss. As the forest is destroyed, so is their home. They are also heavily hunted for their meat, as an alternative source of protein, and their hide is used in making bags, belts and hats. What is their conservation status? The combination of heavy hunting and habitat destruction has led to one species likely having gone extinct (on Mindoro), one that is critically endangered (on Panay), and the four others being threatened to varying degrees. Ironically, the cloud rats appear to be the only native species of "rats and mice" in the Philippines that have any economic impact. If the habitat was protected and hunting effectively regulated, they could remain a source of protein to poor farmers while keeping their population at healthy, sustainable levels. Continued studies and public education can help save this beautiful and unique animal. What are Cloud Rats?
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