The naked mole-rat is rather an unusual-looking creature: almost hairless, wrinkled, virtually blind, yet equipped with enormous incisors. It has neither an insulating layer of fat nor sweat glands, which is why it cannot regulate its own body temperature. It is therefore reliant on the constant temperature within the tunnel system it has dug itself.
The tunnel system of a naked mole-rat colony can be up to three kilometres long. They dig using their chisel-shaped incisors. To prevent swallowing soil whilst digging, the naked mole-rat can close its lips behind its teeth.
Its elongated body and short legs enable it to move quickly and nimbly through its burrow. The naked mole-rat can run just as fast forwards as it can backwards through the network of tunnels.
Taxonomy
Heterocephalidae, Heterocephalus (1 species)
Habitat
hard, compact soils in dry and hot areas, dry savannah, open woodlands
Behaviour and ecology
diurnal, foraging in areas with fresh vegetation
Social structure
colonies of up to 75 animals and one queen
