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Cotton Rat Damage Assessment

Last Updated: February 04, 2008 | Related resource areas: Wildlife Damage Management

Cotton Rats | Cotton Rat Overview | Cotton Rat Damage Assessment | Cotton Rat Damage Management | Cotton Rat Resources | Cotton Rat Acknowledgments | ICWDM | Wildlife Species Information


Damage and Damage Identification

Hispid cotton rat, Sigmodon hispidus
Hispid cotton rat, Sigmodon hispidus

Cotton rat populations fluctuate greatly, ranging from 11 to 149 per acre (28 to 373/ha), and cause the most serious damage during population peaks. They may damage a variety of crops, including alfalfa, grains, grasses, vegetables, peanuts, fruit crops, sweet potatoes, and sugar beets. Cotton rats are especially troublesome in sugarcane and melons. Since these animals will eat quail eggs, a high cotton rat population may have a detrimental impact on quail nesting success. Cotton rats also compete with quail for the same foods.

Legal Status

Cotton rats are not protected in most states; some states classify them as nongame mammals. They may be taken if causing damage. Check local and state laws before beginning control measures.

Economics of Damage and Control

The amount and extent of damage is directly related to the relative density of the cotton rat population. The cost of control must be weighed against the value of the crop to be protected, such as sugarcane or melons.


Cotton Rats | Cotton Rat Overview | Cotton Rat Damage Assessment | Cotton Rat Damage Management | Cotton Rat Resources | Cotton Rat Acknowledgments | ICWDM | Wildlife Species Information


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rodents, wildlife damage assessment

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