Setzers hairy footed gerbil

Introduction: Setzer's hairy-footed gerbil (Gerbillurus setzeri) is endemic to the Namib Desert, as they occur in warm, dry desert only. They are so called because of their large, hairy hind feet. They live in complex burrow systems that can be constructed in a loose and gravelly soil surface or semi-compacted soils and sands. They communicate by foot-drumming and ultra-sonic vocalization.

Distribution: Northwards from the Kuiseb River to southern Angola.

Diet: Arthropods and leafy substances and possibly flower heads, seed pods, insect wings and tenebrionid beetles.

Colouring: A light-brown upper body, with white underparts. A silvery-grey topped tail splinters out to a full brush.

Breeding: Gestation periods last for 21 days.

Size: Head and body length exceeds 100mm. The tail is about 120mm

Weight: 36g