Kangaroo rat

/kˈaŋɡɐɹˌuː ɹˈat/

/kˈæŋɡɐɹˌuː ɹˈæt/

Kangaroo rat

a subterranean rodent with a cylindrical body, specialized dental structure, and unique behaviors for navigating and foraging in underground environments

synonyms : desert rat

Dipodomys phillipsii

What is a "kangaroo rat"?

A mole rat is a small, burrowing rodent known for its unique adaptations to living underground. It has a cylindrical body covered in sparse fur, small eyes, and short limbs with strong claws for digging. Its most distinctive feature is its specialized dental structure, which includes large incisor teeth used for excavating soil and roots for food. Mole rats are well-adapted to living in dark, subterranean environments and have poor eyesight but highly developed senses of touch and smell. They are social animals that live in colonies and are known for their complex tunnel systems, often creating extensive underground networks. Mole rats are found in various parts of the world, including Africa and Asia, and have evolved unique behaviors and physiological adaptations to thrive in their subterranean habitats.

any of several rabbit-sized ratlike Australian kangaroos

synonyms : rat kangaroo

Examples

1. The kangaroo rat lives a simple life.

2. Luckily, desert kangaroo rats have evolved special countermeasures.

3. Merriam’s kangaroo rat is a North American rat.

4. At the museum at the university there, were these kangaroo rats from the Mohave Desert, that had been collected 70, 80 years ago.