Definition & Meaning of "eastern woodrat"

What is a "eastern woodrat"?

The eastern woodrat, also known as the Neotoma floridana, is a species of rat native to eastern and central North America. It is known for its habit of building large, elaborate nests made of sticks, which are often referred to as "packrats" or "trade rats." Eastern woodrats are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials including fruits, seeds, and leaves. They are solitary and nocturnal animals, typically active during the night and resting in their nests during the day. Eastern woodrats are known for their hoarding behavior, collecting and storing various objects and food items in their nests. They are important for ecosystem dynamics as they contribute to seed dispersal and provide habitat for other organisms.