When it comes to unusual animals, the jerboa has quickly climbed to the top of our favorites list. Sorry, kittens!
Have you ever seen an animal that just makes you go, “How did that happen?” It’s as if a few mismatched creatures decided to join forces and create something truly unique. Recently, a video showcasing one of the cutest oddities we’ve ever encountered went viral on social media, and we couldn’t resist sharing this delightful creature with you.
Meet the jerboa!
Let’s imagine how this peculiar animal came into existence:
Angel: God, I know you’ve had a busy day, but can we squeeze in one more animal creation?
God: Seriously? Alright, let’s see what I’ve got left over. I have some rabbit ears, a gerbil’s body, and a bit of a lion’s tail that I can downsize. Done!
Angel: What about the legs?
God: You’re really pushing it, Angel. Good thing I have a couple of mouse legs here. Let’s slap those on the front and back, and for fun, let’s make them backward. And don’t forget those adorable, hoof-like feet. There you go!
Angel: It’s a bit odd-looking, sir.
God: Just add some big eyes. Boom! Perfection. God out.
Now that we’ve introduced this charming little oddball, let’s dive into some fun facts about the jerboa.
What Exactly is a Jerboa?
The jerboa is part of the dipodidae family, also known as “jumping rodents.” While that name might not be the most flattering, its alternative title given by the Kazakh people, which translates to “noodle hop hop,” is undeniably charming.
Are They Fast?
Yes! Jerboas are quick little critters, capable of reaching speeds up to 16 miles per hour when startled. With their nervous demeanor, it’s safe to say they do a lot of hopping.
Why Can’t I Snuggle One?
Unfortunately, jerboas primarily inhabit the deserts of Northern Africa and China. They’re nocturnal, which explains their large eyes and their preference for avoiding human interaction during the day. They create four types of burrows for different purposes: a temporary summer burrow, a nighttime hunting burrow, a permanent summer burrow (close to the kiddos), and a cozy winter burrow.
Are They Social Creatures?
Sadly, no. Jerboas are solitary animals, reminiscent of the famous line by Greta Garbo—they prefer to be alone.
How Many Species Exist?
There are around 31 species of jerboa! This includes the tiny pygmy jerboa, the three-toed jerboa, the dwarf fat-tailed jerboa, and even the Iranian vegetarian jerboa. Some have long ears while others have short ones, with the long-eared variety being endangered.
Can I Buy One a Drink?
Nope! Jerboas are strict teetotalers, deriving all their hydration from the plants and creatures they consume.
Can I Love One Forever?
Yes, but only if you’re a female jerboa! They are believed to practice polygamy, and they often mate right after emerging from hibernation—gross, right?
Interesting Fact:
During World War II, the British 7th armored brigade named themselves “The Desert Rats,” inspired by the jerboa’s elusive tactics. They even sported patches featuring the jerboa. In fact, one British artist created a massive sculpture of a jerboa from scrapped vehicles used in Afghanistan.
However, if you’re dreaming of having a jerboa as a pet, think again. Since 2003, they’ve been banned from entering the United States due to their association with monkeypox. For now, we’ll just have to enjoy videos of these fascinating creatures and imagine carrying one around like a tiny burrito.
For those interested in exploring more about jerboas, you can check out our detailed post here. And if you’re considering home insemination options, reputable retailers like Cryobaby offer excellent kits. Another great resource for information on pregnancy and home insemination can be found at UCSF’s Center.
In summary, the jerboa is a uniquely charming creature that captures the imagination with its whimsical appearance and fascinating behaviors. Though we can’t cuddle one, learning about them brings joy and wonder into our lives.