Naked Mole Rat Natural History
Size
These rodents grow up to 10cm (4 inches).and weigh 30-50 grams (1-1.8 ounces).
Habitat and Distribution
They inhabit arid savannas and shrublands in East Africa.
Age
They have very long lifespans for rodents and can live for 30+ years.
Diet
Naked Mole Rats feed on underground roots, tubers and bulbs. They get all the water they require from their food.
Groups and Breeding
They are eusocial (very complex social systems similar to bees and ants) and several generations will live together but one female is the queen and the mother of almost all the group. Each member has a job such as digging tunnels, gathering food, caring for young or defending the burrow. A colony may be made up of anywhere between 20-300 individuals.
The queen’s gestation lasts 70 days after which she can give birth to between 12-27 young. These will take a year to reach maturity.
Threats
Currently they are facing no threats.
Interesting Facts
- Unlike most other mammals they are almost completely cold blooded.
- They aren’t Moles or Rats.
- They can move their front teeth independently.
The Naked Mole Rats During Your Day Out in Kent
The Naked Mole Rats at Wingham Wildlife Park can be seen in our Nocturnal House next to the Sugar Gliders.