The hispid cotton rat is a tropical cricetine rodent that has expanded its distribution 
in Norths America dramatically in historic times (Genoways and Schlitter, 1967) 
Southwestern U. S. species that has been moving north-eastward and is a potential 
problem especially in the area of agriculture. This particular species was first 
described in Virginia by Patton in Mecklenberg County in 1940 (Patton, 1941). 
     Approximately 300 animals were autopsied/necropsied and the following 
information was recorded: body mass, body length, tail length, fat index (1 - 5), 
number of wounds (scars and puncture wounds associated with breeding), ear length, 
foot length, and the number and mass of male and female gastric nematodes (Physaloptera
hispida).

- Female reproductive information: indications of pregnancy status (relative size of 
nipples, mammary glands, condition of pubic symphysis, condition of vaginal orifice), 
number of placental scars (implantation sites), uterine mass (w/fetuses), condition of 
uterus, number of corpora lutea, number of corpora albicantia, and parity class 
(nulliparous, primiparous, multiparous).

- Embryo/Fetal information: number of embryos, embryo crown/rump length, embryo width.

- Male reproductive information: testes position (abdominal/scrotal), paired testes mass, 
testes length, relative size of seminal vesicles, mass of seminal vesicles, and condition of 
epididymal tubules (looped/convoluted.

     We found this animal to have adjusted its breeding season in Virginia by stopping its 
breeding in the early autumn. This allows the young enough time to mature before winter begins. 
Animals were able to maintain body masses during winter months, posibly indicating relatively 
moderate winters and adequate resources allowing these tropical/sub-tropical animals to adapt 
very well to southeast Virginia winters.