What taxonomic genus do woodrats belong to, distinguishing them from the Norway rat?
Answer
*Neotoma*
Woodrats are classified within the genus *Neotoma*. This classification is important because it separates them taxonomically from other commonly encountered rodents such as the Norway rat (*Rattus norvegicus*) or the roof rat (*Rattus rattus*). Although both belong to the broader order of rodents, the *Neotoma* genus encompasses species characterized by distinct physical traits and specific behaviors, such as their remarkable hoarding instincts and midden construction, setting them apart from the true rats of the *Rattus* genus.
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