Activity patterns and burrowing ecology of the giant pouched rat (Cricetomys emini) in Tshuapa Province, D. R. Congo.

ABSTRACT

Rodents of the genus Cricetomys have been reported to be nocturnal with a bimodal activity pattern and to frequently change burrows. However, no studies to date have examined these ecological aspects with the use of radio-telemetry. Five C. emini were captured and radio-collared to study their activity patterns and burrowing ecology from 9 March to 15 April 2016. Nocturnal activity ranged between the hours of 1800 and 0500 with a probable reduction of activities between 2000-2300 and around 0400 with diurnal activity between 0600 and 1700 h with a reduction of activity between 1100 and 1400. While the present study does confirm nocturnal activity and a bimodal pattern, this study also suggests greater diurnal activity as compared to previous studies. Additionally, data presented here also suggest that C. emini may not change burrows as frequently as previously reported.