Thryonomys – Cane rats

Some of Africa’s most remarkable rodents—large, stocky, grass-eating mammals that have a big role both in local ecosystems and in human cultures. Found widely across sub-Saharan Africa, these rodents thrive in savannas, wetlands, and areas near farmland, where tall grasses and sugarcane provide the perfect food source. Their sturdy build and unusual relationship with people make them some of the most unique rodents in the world.

Cane rats have coarse, bristly fur that ranges from brown to gray, with lighter underparts, and their bodies are rounded with short legs and blunt faces. Their strong jaws and chisel-like incisors are perfectly adapted for chewing through tough grasses and cane stems, which form the bulk of their diet.

The genus has two main species: the greater cane rat (Thryonomys swinderianus), which is widespread in West and Central Africa, and the lesser cane rat (Thryonomys gregorianus), found more in eastern and southern regions. Both are primarily herbivorous grazers, feeding on grasses, reeds, and crops. Unfortunately for farmers, they are notorious for raiding fields of maize, millet, and sugarcane—earning them a reputation as agricultural pests in some areas.

Yet, cane rats are also a valuable food source across much of Africa. Their meat, often called “grasscutter”, is highly prized for its flavor and nutritional value. In fact, in many regions, cane rats are considered a delicacy and fetch higher prices than beef or chicken. This demand has led to widespread hunting in the wild and the rise of cane rat farming, where people raise them in captivity for sustainable meat production. These semi-domesticated cane rats are hardy, easy to breed, and provide both food and income for rural communities.