Kangaroo Rat Plush Toys and Gifts
The little Kangaroo Rat Cuddlekins stuffed animal is made by Wild Republic. Check our sponsor's online Gift Shop to see if we have any Cuddlekins Kangaroo Rat stuffed animals in stock.
One of the most endearing of the
rodent family is the Kangaroo Rat. The Kangaroo Rat belongs to the Heteromyidae Family, which also includes the Pocket Mouse. Heteromyids are only found in Central and North America. While given the name "rat" these little animals are neither rats nor mice.
There are 16 species of Kangaroo Rats. They can measure anywhere from 8 to 14 inches long and weigh
from 1 to 5 ounces. They may have more than one litter per year and depending upon the species have from 1 to 6 young per litter.
Kangaroo Rats live in burrows and are nocturnal. They live in areas that are sparsely vegetated and have sandy soil. Their underground burrows include special sections for storing food, sleeping and nesting. They feed on seeds and some greens. The young are born in late spring through early fall.
Kangaroo Rats have long tails that help them keep their balance. Like a Kangaroo, the forelegs are short and the hindlegs are long and powerful. They can make spectacular leaps, especially when alarmed. Some leaps have measured to 9 feet. They also use their hindlegs to make a thumping sound, which scientists believe is used to announce their territory, attract a mate or repel an intruder. Predators include foxes, coyotes, owls, snakes, bobcats, hawks and spotted skunks.
Kangaroo Rats live from 2 to 5 years in the wild.
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Mammalia, Order: Rodentia, Family: Heteromyidae, Genus: Dipodomys
