Erika's tuco-tuco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Erika's tuco-tuco |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ctenomys
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| Species: |
erikacuellarae
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Erika's tuco-tuco (Ctenomys erikacuellarae) is a special kind of tuco-tuco, which is a small rodent. It lives only in Bolivia, a country in South America.
This tuco-tuco was named after Erika Cuéllar. She is a conservation biologist from Bolivia. A conservation biologist is a scientist who works to protect animals and their homes.
Where it Lives
Erika's tuco-tuco lives in the Cordillera Oriental mountain ranges. These mountains are found in the Santa Cruz and Chuquisaca areas of Bolivia.
- It lives at high places, from about 810 metres (2,660 ft) to 1,800 metres (5,900 ft) above sea level.
What it Looks Like
This tuco-tuco is about 287 millimetres (11+1⁄3 in) long. That's about the length of a ruler!
- It has soft fur.
- Its fur is a mix of brown and a warm orange color.
About Tuco-Tucos
Tuco-tucos are small rodents, a bit like gophers or prairie dogs. They are known for making a "tuc-tuc" sound when they dig. This sound is how they got their name!
- They spend most of their lives underground.
- They dig tunnels and burrows with their strong claws.
- These tunnels help them find food and stay safe from predators.
See also
In Spanish: Tuco-tuco de Érika para niños
