The Jerboa: Desert Hopper

Jerboas are nocturnal hopping desert rodents found throughout North Africa and Asia.

Unlike nearly any other mammal apart from humans, jerboas almost exclusively move on two legs. They're obligate bipeds.

Jerboa back legs are often up to 4 times as long as the front legs.

A jerboa body length is between 4 and 26 cm. The tail adds another 7 to 30 cm.

Jerboa moves by hopping like a kangaroo.

Jerboas do not drink water but get moisture from food. When plants dry out, they eat roots.

Most burrows have an emergency exit ending just below the surface. A fire escape made of loose sand.

The typical lifespan of a jerboa is around 2 to 3 years. A short life, mostly running.