Rakali Top ABC Poll!

The rakali (Australian water-rat), Hydromys chrysogaster, has emerged as Australia’s most under-appreciated native creature in ABC’s National Science Week poll, based on more than 65,000 votes. Known for its webbed feet, white-tipped tail, and golden belly, the rakali is the country’s largest rodent and a masterful swimmer with a varied diet that even includes cane toads—handled with surgical precision. Experts like Dr Ann Jones describe it as “fluffy but a kick-arse fighter,” capable of repelling invasive black rats and thriving in environments ranging from urban waterways to coastal and mountainous regions. This win brings the rakali the spotlight it deserves as a stealthy yet resilient native species.
Here in Mansfield, you might be happy to know rakali can be seen regularly at the Mullum Wetlands and along Fords Creek—adding a wonderfully wild touch to our waterways.
Read the full article here: ABC News – Nothing beats the rakali…