Jaculus jaculus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common Name and Taxon

Jaculus jaculus, commonly known as the lesser Egyptian jerboa, is a small rodent.

Locomotion Adaptations

It is often compared to a tiny kangaroo because it has exceptionally large hind legs and moves by hopping.

Hind Limb and Tail Morphology

Each of its hind feet has three toes, and it has a very long tail that it uses to keep balance while jumping.

Head Morphology

This species has large eyes, large ears, and a fairly stubby snout.

Coat Coloration

Its coat ranges in color from pale sandy to dark sandy, with a paler underside.

Geographic Range

Its range covers the entire Sahara Desert, scattered regions of the Sahel, and the Middle East.

Habitat

The lesser Egyptian jerboa lives in desert habitats, which can be either sandy or rocky.