Wildlifeof Thailand
Indomalayan Bamboo Rat
Spalacidae
Photo: Jeffdelonge (talk) · Public domain
Rhizomys sumatrensis
Basic stats
Diet
Bamboo roots, rhizomes and shoots
Habitat
Bamboo forest, secondary growth and plantations
Range
Southern China through mainland Southeast Asia to the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra
The Indomalayan bamboo rat is the largest regional bamboo rat, with a heavy cylindrical body, small eyes, rounded ears, powerful digging limbs and a short tail. Its coat ranges from grey-brown to orange-brown, and the plantar pads are granular (regional mammal guide; specialist Rhizomys taxonomy).
It occurs from southern China through mainland Southeast Asia to the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra. It excavates extensive burrows in bamboo forest, secondary growth and plantations and feeds on roots, rhizomes and shoots. The strong incisors cut both food and compacted soil (regional mammal accounts). It is Nationally Near Threatened (Thailand Red Data 2025).
Quick answers
- What does the Indomalayan Bamboo Rat eat?
- Bamboo roots, rhizomes and shoots
- What habitat does the Indomalayan Bamboo Rat live in?
- Bamboo forest, secondary growth and plantations
- Where is the Indomalayan Bamboo Rat found?
- Southern China through mainland Southeast Asia to the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra