The Bushy-tailed jird or bushy-tailed dipodil (Sekeetamys calurus)
Habitat
The Bushy-tailed jird or bushy-tailed dipodil (Sekeetamys calurus) is native to rocky areas and deserts in north-eastern Africa and western Asia. Its range extends from the Red Sea coast of Egypt (isolated finds in Sudan), through the Sinai Peninsula to Israel and Jordan, and into western Saudi Arabia. An isolated population occurs in the centre of Saudi Arabia. In the mountains, these sandflies are found up to 600 metres above sea level.
Description and features
The Bushy-tailed jird reaches a body length of 10-12.5 cm and its tail length varies from 11 cm to 16 cm. Its fur colouration is yellow to red above with blackish shadows, its belly and limbs are whitish, and its brown, fluffy tail ends in a white tassel. The Bushy-tailed jird digs burrows under rocks or buildings. Females give birth to 3 to 6 cubs. The life span of gerbils is 5-6 5.5 years.
