How does the preferred terrain of the Allegheny woodrat contrast with that of the Eastern woodrat?

Answer

The Allegheny woodrat tends to favor cooler, more rugged terrain.

A key distinction between these two related species lies in their habitat tolerances. The Allegheny woodrat (*N. magister*) is adapted to and frequently occupies cooler, more rugged environments, often found at higher elevations near rocky habitats or the timberline. In contrast, the Eastern woodrat (*N. floridana*) possesses a broader distribution across the eastern United States and seems slightly more inclined to occupy human-altered structures when natural features are less abundant, suggesting a tolerance for warmer or less rugged settings within its large territory.

How does the preferred terrain of the Allegheny woodrat contrast with that of the Eastern woodrat?
locationhabitatanimalrodentwoodrat