Origin
Cricetomys gambianus is native to Africa. Gambian rats were introduced to the United States in as escaped pets in the Florida Keys.

Life Cycle
The largest rat, C. gambianus can reach up to 9 lbs (144 oz) and measure 20-35 in. (51-89 cm) in length. Besides its large size, Gambian rats are distinguishable by its long almost hairless tail that is lighter in fur color at the end. C. gambianus are opportunistic eaters that are seen around houses in Florida. Gambian rats have a high reproductive rate that produces a litter of 1-5 young in 27-42 days.

Distribution
C. gambianus are currently only found in the Florida Keys.

Control Efforts
Trapping of rats is taking place by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the USDA Wildlife Services, and the city of Marathon. Gambian rats are known carriers of monkeypox which is a viral disease that can spread to humans. The CDC and FDA issued a ban on the distribution and sale of imported rodents in 2003.

http://www.tsusinvasives.org/home/database/cricetomys-gambianus
https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/mammals/rodents/gambian-pouched-rat/
https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/african-ban.html
 

Resources

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• Florida's Exotic Wildlife Species Detail - Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
• Animal Diversity Web - University of Michigan Museum of Zoology
• Wikipedia - Wikimedia Foundation, Inc

Maps

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Invasive Listing Sources

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• Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
• Florida Conditional and Prohibited Non-Native Species Lists
• Florida Invasive Species Partnership

References

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Common Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.

Scientific Name Reference: Integrated Taxonomic Information System on-line database.