Species MammalsOrd's Kangaroo Rat

Ord's Kangaroo Rat

Dipodomys ordii

CommonMammal
Illustration of Ord's Kangaroo Rat (Dipodomys ordii)

Ord's Kangaroo Rat is the most widespread kangaroo rat in North America, with powerful hind legs and a long, tufted tail that enable it to leap up to six feet in a single bound to escape predators. Its kidneys are extraordinarily efficient, capable of producing urine five times more concentrated than humans, allowing it to survive without ever drinking water. Kangaroo rats produce most of their water metabolically from the seeds they eat.

Habitat
Sandy deserts, arid grasslands, and semi-arid scrublands
Diet
Seeds, especially grass seeds stored in cheek pouches
How common
Common

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