SPINY RAT

any of the numerous species of ratlike Central and South American rodents of the family Echimyidae (order Rodentia). There are about 14 living genera; the number of recognized species varies, depending on the authority, from about 40 to more than 70. Spiny rats range from 15 to 40 centimetres (6 to 16 inches) long, excluding the tail, which may be short or long and lightly or fully haired. They usually have pointed noses, and most have bristly, or spiny, fur. Colour varies but may be reddish brown, brown, blackish, or black and white. Spiny rats are herbivorous and eat sugarcane, grass, nuts, and fruit. They are eaten by humans and are considered to have a good flavour. Some species are terrestrial, others are arboreal. Spiny rats live in forests or clearings, frequently near water. They are active in the evening and at night and shelter in burrows, among rocks or tree roots, in tree hollows, and occasionally in human dwellings.