Unknown Danger: Nocturnal Woodrat

Polar bears and giant pandas receive a lot of attention in conservation circles — and rightly so, since these adorable animals need protection. But what about all the creatures that aren't so popular or endearing? This week, we'll take a look at some little-known species that also need some serious help.

Key Largo woodrat

This medium-size rat with a gray-brown coat and white belly can be found navigating the tree limbs of the northern reaches of Key Largo, Florida. A nocturnal omnivore, the woodrat noshes on fruit, buds, and leaves. Its small habitat has shrunk by half since the 1920s and it now faces continued condominium development. To help, you can volunteer with scientists from Walt Disney World working to prevent the extinction of the small critters.

Learn more: Meet another Florida rodent that is losing ground to development. 

--photo to courtesy of FWS