Lesser Bandicoot Rat 

Bandicota bengalensis

The Lesser Bandicoot Rat is a large rodent species native to South Asia, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It is commonly found in agricultural fields, urban areas, and human settlements, where it is often considered a pest due to its burrowing and crop-damaging habits. The Lesser Bandicoot Rat has a stocky body covered in coarse, dark brown or greyish fur, with a lighter underbelly. It is larger than the common house rat, measuring about 25–35 cm in body length, with a tail nearly as long as its body. It has a blunt snout, small ears, and strong, sharp claws adapted for digging.

This species is primarily nocturnal and is an excellent burrower, creating extensive underground tunnel systems. It is omnivorous, feeding on grains, fruits, vegetables, small insects, and food scraps.

IUCN Status: Least Concern

IWLPA: Not Defined

CITES: Not Defined