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Angoni Vlei Rat
The Angoni Vlei Rat is medium to large in size compared to other
murids. Long, soft reddish brown to gray fur covers this small
mammal. The throat is often a buffy color.
Angoni Vlei Rats have large ears. The name Otomys is derived from
the Greek word "otos" which means ear and "mys" which
means mouse.
Reproduction
There is not enough data available concerning the reproductive
biology of the Angoni Vlei Rat. Breeding has been observed to start
at around 4 months of age. Females have up to 3 litters each year
and there are estimates of 1-5 young/litter. Breeding coincides with
good availability. Young are precocial, which means they are born in
a relatively advanced condition of development.
Behavior
Angoni Vlei Rats are usually solitary but sometimes are found in
pairs. Angoni Vlei Rats are mainly diurnal.
Food Habits
Angoni Vlei Rats are herbivores that eat mainly grasses, reeds,
roots, and occasionally bark. In captivity they should be offered a
complete diet of rodent lab blocks, and rat or mouse
mix, with bits of fruit or veggies regularly. Cheerios or wheat
bread are great treats, in small quantities. Do NOT feed chocolate,
fried foods, salted foods, candy or junk food! They may enjoy
crickets and mealworms if they are captive bred, never feed wild
insects as they may carry parasites. Vitamins, like Nutri-Cal are a good addition to their diet, and added calcium
during nursing and growth due to demands on their systems at those
times, but take care not to overdo it. Water bottles should be used
to proved constant, clean water. Ceramic or stoneware food dishes
work well for keeping seeds or fresh foods off the floor, and a wire
mesh hopper that allows them to eat the lab blocks through without
extra waste.
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