The rakali (Hydromys chrysogaster), also known as the rabe, the "Australian otter" or water-rat, is an Australian native rodent first scientifically described in 1804. [2] Adoption of the Ngarrindjeri name rakali is intended to foster a positive public attitude by Environment Australia.

water rat, any of 18 species of amphibious carnivorous rodents. They exhibit many adaptations associated with hunting in water for food and burrowing along streams, rivers, and lakes. The eyes are small, the nostrils can be closed to keep water out, and the external portion of the ears is either small and furry or absent.

Water rat is a common name for a number of not closely related types of semiaquatic rodents of superfamily Muroidea, including: Ucayali water rat or amphibious rat (Amphinectomys savamis), a cricetid found in Peru; European water vole (Arvicola amphibius, formerly A. terrestris), a cricetid in north and central Europe and Russia

The European water vole (Arvicola amphibius) or northern water vole is a semi-aquatic rodent. It is often informally called the water rat, though it only superficially resembles a true rat. [3] Water voles have rounder noses than rats, deep brown fur, chubby faces and short fuzzy ears; unlike rats their tails, paws and ears are covered with hair.

The Water-rat is one of Australia's largest rodents and is usually found near permanent bodies of water. Well adapted to aquatic life with its webbed hind feet and waterproof coat, the Water-rat can be identified by its large size and long tail with a white tip.

Rakali are found in Australia, New Guinea, and offshore islands. They live near permanent water in a diverse range of habitats that varies from fresh slow-moving streams, brackish inland lakes, and creeks to wetlands, rivers, estuaries, sheltered marine bays, and beaches on coastlines.

Water Rats, also known as Rakali, are native to Australia and can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats, from sub-alpine streams and inland waterways to lakes, swamps, irrigation channels and farm dams.

The Water Rat, also known by the Aboriginal name Rakali, is a top predator in freshwater and saltwater environments right across Australia. Rakalis grow up to 60 cm long. Being the largest rat in Australia, they are useful to have around as they actually fight off introduced rats.

Oct 28, 2015 · Unlike other rodents, the Rakali (the native name for the water rat) is actually a predator and an excellent hunter. It even has the unique ability to kill cane toads without falling victim to their toxic poison.

Water rats are considered as a semi aquatic animal group. These animals are commonly classified as rodents. The majority of the life span is spent on the land, they live by making burrows and nests near the river banks or in general the landscape near any water body. The water body mainly acts as a source of food.