Namaqua rock mouse

Introduction: The Namaqua rock mouse (Aethomys namaquensis) was originally described by a Scottish surgeon, naturalist, explorer and zoologist, Sir Andrew Smith in 1834 in Namaqualand, hence the name. In Namibia's rocky areas it outnumbers all other rodents as it prefers a habitat of crevices. They will nest in the forks of trees in the absence of outcrops and do not a burrow.

It can be confused with the red veld rat, but has a slightly different dental structure. Namaqua rock mice are communal, terrestrial and nocturnal creatures.

Distribution: Occurs throughout Namibia except for areas of the Skeleton Coast and the far central north regions of the country.

Diet: Omnivorous but is known to prefer seeds of grass amongst other available vegetation.

Colouring: Yellowish-brown to reddish upperparts with a white belly.

Breeding: From between 2-7 young, averaging 3 per litter, are born in the warmer months. Young cling to the nipples when the mother is out on foraging expeditions.

Size: Head body length of 110mm. Tail 148mm. Weight: 58g.