Pearson's tuco-tuco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pearson's tuco-tuco |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ctenomys
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| Species: |
pearsoni
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The Pearson's tuco-tuco (Ctenomys pearsoni) is a small rodent that lives underground. It belongs to a group of animals called Ctenomyidae. This special animal is found only in Uruguay, a country in South America.
Contents
About Pearson's Tuco-Tuco
Pearson's tuco-tucos are a type of rodent. Rodents are mammals with front teeth that grow all the time. They use these teeth for gnawing. This tuco-tuco is named after an American scientist, Oliver Payne Pearson. He was a zoologist who studied animals.
Where They Live
These tuco-tucos live in Uruguay. They are found in areas that are not very high up, usually below 200 meters (about 650 feet). This means they prefer lower lands. They are endemic to Uruguay, which means they are naturally found nowhere else in the world.
Their Underground Homes
Pearson's tuco-tucos are expert diggers. They build complex homes called burrows. These burrows have many openings, usually around 13 different entrances. Inside their burrows, they build one or two cozy nests. These nests are made from dried grass. They like to dig in sandy soil, but they can also adapt to other types of ground.
Why They Are in Danger
Sadly, Pearson's tuco-tucos are facing threats. Their homes are disappearing because of human activities. People are building new homes and cities where these animals live. Land is also being used for farming and raising animals like cows. This loss of their natural habitat puts the tuco-tucos at risk.
See also
In Spanish: Tucutucu de Pearson para niños
