Fauna
Mammal

Ord's Kangaroo Rat

Dipodomys ordii

Also known as Ord Kangaroo Rat

Ord's kangaroo rats navigate arid landscapes using powerful hind legs that propel them up to two meters in a single bound to evade predators. Remarkably adapted to dry environments, they extract all necessary moisture from the seeds they eat and rarely need to drink water. External fur-lined cheek pouches allow them to transport massive caches of seeds back to underground burrows for winter storage.

NocturnalBurrowingDesert Wildlife
Ord's Kangaroo Rat reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyGrass seeds, Forb seeds, Insects
Predators
  • Owls
  • Coyotes
  • Rattlesnakes
ThreatsHabitat loss from dune stabilization, agricultural conversion, and severe weather
HabitatsArid sand dunes, sandy prairies, scrublands, and semi-arid grasslands
Life span2–5 years
Classification
  1. FamilyHeteromyidae
  2. SpeciesDipodomys ordii
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Capable of a sharp bite if cornered or handled; admire from a safe distance.
Responsible observation
  • Night Viewing: Scan sandy roads and open dune edges with a red light after dark to avoid blinding them.
  • Burrow Spotting: Look for small, rounded hole entrances in loose soil near low shrub vegetation.
  • Respect Wildlife: Avoid chasing or trapping these agile jumpers, as handling causes extreme stress and defensive bites.
Related species
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