Greater cane rat

The greater cane rat (Thryonomys swinderianus), also known as the grasscutter (in Ghana, Nigeria and other regions of West Africa), is one of two species of cane rats, a small family of African hystricognath rodents.

In some cases, greater cane rats can weigh to approximately 7 to 9 kg (15 to 20 lb).

[3][4][5][page needed] It has rounded ears, a short nose, and coarse bristly hair.

Cane rats live in small groups led by a single male.

However, the peoples of the region also utilize the cane rat as a food source (as bushmeat), considering the meat a delicacy.

A male greater cane rat in captive breeding program in Gabon . Although one of the largest rodents in Africa and one of the largest species commonly called a "rat", it is not closely related to typical Rattus species.