Naked Mole Rat

scientific name

Heterocehalus glaber

size/weight/height

Head/Body Length: 3.5-4.7 in " Weight: 1-2.1 oz

adaptations/coloration

cylindrical bodies " short limbs " loose skin helps animal turn around in confined space " no external ears " Eyes: small (may be blind) " Metabolism: low = low food requirement " Teeth: chisel-like incisors; touch-sensitive hairs over body (only hair) " Smell/Hearing: developed

behavior

Caste System: organized in castes according to task; castes distinguished by appearance " Home: underground; live in colonies; similar to social insects " Movement: move backward easily " Personality: highly social " Tunnels: dig extensive tunnel system; constant temp (avoid outside extremes)

reproduction/lifespan

Lifespan: 10+ yrs in captivity " Breeding: only 1 pair breeds; non-breeders not sterile; breeding female seems to suppress breeding in others (pheromones?); breed yr.-round in captivity " Birth Interval: up to 4 litters/yr. " Gestation: 70-80 days " Litter: avg. ~12 (record = 27 in captivity) " Parenting: young cared for by entire colony " Sexual Maturity: 1+ yrs

diet

Wild: roots, tubers " Zoo: fruit, rat chow, vegetables

habitat/range

arid regions " Ethiopia, Somalia & Kenya

status

not listed