Main Characteristics

The Long-Eared Jerboa is a nocturnal mouse-like rodent. They have a body length between 7 and 9 cms (2.75 - 3.5 inches), a tail length up to 16 cms (6.3 inches) and they weigh between 23 and 38 g (0.8 - 1.3 oz).

They are coloured light reddish/brown with a white underside. Their tail is long, covered in fine hairs the same colour as their body and has a black and white tuft on the end. Their ears are extremely large, being one third longer than their head.

They have long hind legs and their feet are 4 - 4.6 cms (1.5 - 1.8 inches) in length. The soles of their feet are covered in short, stiff hairs which help them move around over the sand. They leap over the sand with a kangaroo-like hopping gait.

Habitat

The Long-Eared Jerboa is found in the deserts and semi-deserts of Mongolia and China. They spend their days hidden in burrows beneath the sand and they are active at night. They are known to hibernate during the winter months.

Diet

The Long-Eared Jerboa mainly feeds on insects.

Breeding

Little is known about reproduction in the Long-Eared Jerboa but it is thought to be similar to other closely related species of Jerboa.

Breeding is likely to begin shortly after their hibernation period has ended and they are thought to have 2 litters during the summer months. After a gestation period of 25 - 35 days, it is though they will give birth to 2 - 6 offspring.

Predators

Little is known about predators of the Long-Eared Jerboa but it is thought that nocturnal predators, such as owls, will prey upon them.

Subspecies

There are no subspecies of the Long-Eared Jerboa.

Interesting Facts

The Long-Eared Jerboa has been included as one of the 10 species to be investigated by the Zoological Society of London Edge of Existence Programme in 2007.

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Similar Animals

Gobi Jerboa
Great Jerboa
Lesser Egyptian Jerboa
Greater Egyptian Jerboa