Jerboas
Jerboas
Dipodidae
The Bouncing Desert Rodents: Jerboas (Dipodidae) are tiny desert-dwelling rodents famous for their long legs and incredible jumping ability. Found across North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, these nocturnal creatures thrive in some of the harshest environments on Earth. With their elongated hind legs and short forelimbs, jerboas move by hopping like miniature kangaroos, reaching speeds of up to 24 km/h (15 mph) and leaping distances 10 times their body length. This unique locomotion helps them evade predators like owls, foxes, and snakes in the open desert. Jerboas have large eyes and excellent hearing, which help them navigate in the dark. Some species even have long ears, similar to a rabbit’s, which help with heat regulation in extreme desert temperatures. Their tails, often longer than their bodies, act as counterbalances when they jump and help them make quick turns. Amazingly, jerboas don’t need to drink water! Instead, they get all the moisture they need from their food, which consists of seeds, roots, and insects. Their burrowing lifestyle helps them escape the heat during the day, as they rest in cool underground tunnels. Despite their adaptability, some jerboa species face threats from habitat destruction and climate change. However, these agile, quirky rodents remain some of the most fascinating desert survivors.