Rodents are like cats

Scientists have discovered a rodent that is as big as a cat, shaped like an overweight Guina mouse.

Detection of rodents of the same size as cats

This rat species is scientifically named Plagiodontia aedium bondi, or James Bond mouse . Scientists discovered it on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola .

James Bond rodents.(Photo: Jose Nunez-Mino)

A mouse weighs more than a kilogram, a soft brown fur and a short tail. They are nocturnal and live in caves or small niches. This is the reason why it was discovered so far.

James Bond mice belong to an ancient rodent group called hutia. This group has about 30 different species, but most are extinct due to human activities. Besides, the destroyed habitat has led to many rodent extinctions. The surviving lucky species are also facing a high risk of extinction.

In Hispaniola, there is a shallow sea channel, which appeared several centuries ago. The canal becomes a natural fence that cuts across the island, preventing animals from moving from side to side, making the fauna on both sides different.