Dunn's gerbil facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dunn's gerbil |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Gerbillus
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| Species: |
dunni
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Dunn's gerbil (Gerbillus dunni) is a small rodent that lives in dry areas of northeastern Africa. You can find it mainly in countries like Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somaliland and Djibouti. This little animal prefers dry grasslands and rocky plains. It is sometimes called the "Somalia gerbil," but be careful not to confuse it with other similar gerbils!
A British zoologist named Oldfield Thomas first described Dunn's gerbil in 1904. Scientists have studied its karyotype (the number and structure of its chromosomes), which is 2n=74. The good news is that its natural home is not in danger. Because of this, the International Union for Conservation of Nature says it is a "least concern" animal. This means it is not currently threatened with extinction.
What Does Dunn's Gerbil Look Like?
Dunn's gerbil is one of eight very similar gerbil species found in northeastern Africa. These include the Berbera gerbil, Brockman's gerbil, cushioned gerbil, Harwood's gerbil, least gerbil, Somalian gerbil, and Waters's gerbil.
You can tell Dunn's gerbil apart from these others by looking at its hind feet. The soles of its back feet are covered in hair! Its head and body are about 98 mm (3.9 in) long. Its tail is longer, measuring about 135 mm (5.3 in). This gerbil usually weighs around 38 g (1.34 oz).
Where Does Dunn's Gerbil Live?
Dunn's gerbil is native to the area known as the Horn of Africa. Its home range includes Eritrea, Djibouti, eastern Ethiopia, and northern Somalia.
It typically lives in places that are bare or have very little plant life. These areas include rocky plains, dry grasslands, and dry savannah.
Is Dunn's Gerbil Endangered?
Dunn's gerbil lives in a large area with plenty of suitable habitat. Scientists have not found any specific threats to this animal. Its population is thought to be stable.
Even though it is not seen very often, its numbers are believed to be large. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has looked at its situation. They have decided that its conservation status is "least concern". This means it is not considered to be at risk of extinction right now.
