Phloeomys pallidus

rodent

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July 23, 2026

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Phloeomys pallidus, also known as the slender-tailed cloud rat, is a species of slow-moving, nocturnal, tree-dwelling rodent native to the Philippines. This rodent, found in the forests of Luzon, can weigh over 2 kg (4.4 pounds) and has a body length of 30 to 50 cm (12 to 20 inches), with a tail of similar length. Its fur is long, dense, and soft, typically cream or pale gray with black or brown markings. Phloeomys pallidus nests in hollow trees and feeds on young leaves, usually having one young per year. Cloud rats belong to the family Muridae and are closely related to other endemic Philippine rodents.1

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cloud rat
Giant cloud rats
Phloeomys pallidus, found in northern Luzon, has long, dense, soft fur of cream or pale gray interrupted by black or brown markings. It is easily distinguished from P. cumingi, which has short, dark brown fur. P. cumingi lives in southern Luzon and on the offshore…
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Phloeomys pallidus, found in northern Luzon, has long, dense, soft fur of cream or pale gray interrupted by black or brown markings. It is easily distinguished from P. cumingi, which has short, dark brown fur. P. cumingi lives in southern Luzon and on the offshore…
Read More