A small subterranean rodent species native to western North America, characterized by its burrowing lifestyle and specialized adaptations for underground habitats.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Found in diverse environments including grasslands, agricultural areas, foothills, and mountain regions of California, Oregon, Nevada, and adjacent southwestern states, typically at elevations between 0-3,000 meters.
Ecological Role
Critical ecosystem engineer that aerates soil, facilitates seed dispersal, creates habitat microenvironments, and serves as prey for numerous predators in grassland and woodland ecosystems.
Morphology
SKIN COATDense, short fur ranging from light brown to dark gray, providing thermal insulation and reducing friction during underground movement
LIMBS WINGSShort, muscular limbs with enlarged, curved claws specialized for excavation and tunnel construction
HEAD SENSORYSmall eyes, reduced visual acuity, prominent incisors, sensitive facial whiskers for underground navigation
BODY STRUCTURECompact, cylindrical body measuring 15-20 cm in length, weighing 80-200 grams, with powerful shoulders and strong forelimbs adapted for digging
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: University of California Press
