Namtap facts for kids
The namtap or spectacled dormouse (Graphiurus ocularis) is a small, furry animal that looks a bit like a squirrel. It's a type of rodent and belongs to the Gliridae family. This special dormouse is found only in South Africa. It's one of just four dormouse species that live nowhere else in the world!
Quick facts for kids Namtap |
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G. ocularis
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Contents
What Does the Namtap Look Like?
The namtap is easy to spot because of its unique features. It has a bushy tail, much like a squirrel's, which helps it balance when climbing. Its face has a short muzzle, which is the part of its head that includes its nose, mouth, and jaws. It also has small ears and very soft fur.
Its Special Face Marks
One of the most interesting things about the namtap is its face. It has white and grey markings, and dark rings around its eyes. These dark rings look a lot like spectacles, which is why it's also called the "spectacled dormouse"! Its cheeks, belly, and the tops of its paws are all white. Usually, its bushy tail has a white tip too.
Where Do Namtaps Live?
The namtap is an endemic animal, which means it is found only in one specific place. For the namtap, that place is western South Africa. It prefers to live in areas with lots of rocks, but you might also find it in trees or even in small outdoor buildings.
Namtap Habits and Diet
Namtaps are nocturnal, which means they are most active at night. During the day, they usually sleep. They are very good at climbing, which helps them move around their rocky and tree-filled homes. Their main diet includes seeds and other parts of plants. They also enjoy eating invertebrates, which are small creatures without backbones, like insects.
See also
In Spanish: Lirón de El Cabo para niños
