Ord's Kangaroo Rat
(Dipodomys Ordii)
Ord's kangaroo rat is a vertebrate under the categorization of a warmblooded mammal. It is an omnivore, eating both seeds and small insects. While it is a predator to many small insects, it is prey to a lot of other animals such as coyotes and some types of birds. There is no large threat to the population of Ord's kangaroo rats, and there has been no recorded decline of incline of them. They mate in warm weather and have 2-5 babies within a span of thirty days. The babies are born blind and bald.
Description:
Habitat:
Ord's kangaroo rats are the only mammals that live year round in the sand dunes ecosystem of Great Sand Dunes National Park. They live in burrows dug by themselves. This makes it harder for predators to get them. Since it is not as hot underground, the cool air helps Ord's kangaroo rats conserve water.
Food:
Ord's kangaroo rats eat mostly seeds from various types of grass and sunflowers. They first store the seeds in their cool, moist underground burrows, so that the seeds collect moisture in the air. That way, these kangaroo rats can live their whole lives without consuming a single drop of water. They occasionally feed on insects as well.
Adaptations:
Ord's kangaroo rat has many adaptations that are necessary for it's survival.
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