THE ROCK RAT OR NOKI 



the rocks of the arid, rocky mountain ranges. It may 

 be seen at any time of the day running about over 

 and amongst the boulders, or lying basking in the 

 rays of the sun. 



It feeds upon the stunted vegetation which strug- 

 gles for existence amongst the rocks, such, for instance, 

 as the flowers of some of the Composites which 

 grow rather profusely in these dry, rocky localities. 



The Rock Rat shows little natural fear of man, and 

 is easily tamed, and makes an interesting pet. 



The head and body of this rat averages 6 inches 

 in length. The tail is slightly shorter than the head 

 and body. 



General colour of the upper parts grey with a 

 shade of brown, and pencillings of tawny and black ; 

 the posterior part of the back and the hind-legs 

 dull chestnut, the hairs being grey with a bluish 

 tinge at the base. 



Ears wider than high, and rather small and dark in 

 colour ; under parts shabby white with a tawny 

 tinge. The front limbs have four toes armed with 

 claws, the first toe being rudimentary and represented 

 by a tubercle only. Incisor teeth small and smooth. 



Genus: Thryonomys 



Body covered with short, stiff bristles ; tail less than 

 half the length of the head and body ; incisor teeth 

 broad and strong, the upper ones with three deep 

 grooves. 



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