Mammal
Lesser Egyptian Jerboa
Jaculus jaculusAlso known as Lesser Desert Jerboa
Lesser jerboas navigate harsh arid landscapes using remarkably elongated hind legs that allow them to leap up to two meters in a single bound. These nocturnal rodents plug the entrances of their deep subterranean burrows during the day to retain moisture and keep out the severe heat. They obtain virtually all their liquid from the desert seeds, roots, and succulent vegetation they consume.
NocturnalDesert DwellerHopping Mammal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyGrass Seeds, Desert Plant Roots, Succulent Leaves
Predators
- Horned Viper
- Fennec Fox
- Barn Owl
ThreatsHabitat degradation, coastal development, and feral predators
HabitatsSandy and stony deserts, dry plains, and coastal dunes
Life span2–6 years
Classification
- OrderRodentia
- FamilyDipodidae
- GenusJaculus
- SpeciesJaculus jaculus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Capable of nipping if cornered or handled; observe from a respectful distance at night.
Responsible observation
- Nocturnal Spotting: Search sandy flats shortly after sunset using a soft red flashlight to avoid dazzling them.
- Burrow Spotting: Look for small plugged sand mounds near shrub roots that mark active daytime shelters.
Image unavailableDesert Competitor 
Close Relative (c) Николай Усик, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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