Bramble Cay Melomys

The Bramble Cay melomys, also known as the Bramble Cay mosaic-tailed rat, was a small rodent with reddish-brown fur and a mosaic-patterned, scaly tail. Measuring between 14 to 16 centimeters in body length, with a tail length of 14.5 to 18 centimeters, and weighing around 100 grams, it was the only mammal native to Bramble Cay. The species was first documented in 1845 by European sailors who noted its abundance on the island. Over time, environmental changes, particularly those associated with climate change, led to severe habitat loss. Rising sea levels and increased storm frequency resulted in the inundation of the cay, destroying vegetation and the melomys' habitat. Despite targeted conservation efforts, including surveys and habitat restoration attempts, the species was last observed in 2009. Subsequent surveys failed to detect any individuals, and in 2016, the Bramble Cay melomys was officially declared extinct, marking it as the first mammal species lost due to human-induced climate change.