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Indian Desert Jird

Indian Desert Jird

Afghanistan, Pakistan, India
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Grassland, Ocean, Desert

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
roots, leaves, forest seeds, and occasional insects

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
nocturnal and crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Movements, Home range and Social organization. Indian Desert Jirds forage in proximity of their burrows at distances of 20 - 150 m. They are not aggressive but are gregarious. Their colonies are the result of several burrows being close together. They have a foot-drumming alarm system, but do not vocalize.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Indian Desert Jird is officially designated as Least Concern. Current field registries estimate a global population composed of an unquantified number of individuals, making habitat preservation critical to maintaining their wild populations.

It is typically endemic to grassland, ocean, desert, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of roots, leaves, forest seeds, and occasional insects. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a nocturnal and crepuscular activity pattern, optimizing its energy conservation and interactions within its native ecosystem. The species has a typical natural lifespan of approximately 3 years, allowing it to adapt and mature through structured generational cycles.

Ongoing biological monitoring and ecological advocacy emphasize the importance of protecting this species. The stability of its food chain and the prevention of fragmentation in its primary range are vital for the continued survival of Indian Desert Jird.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeAfghanistan, Pakistan, India
Habitat RangeGrassland, Ocean, Desert
Lifespan3 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificMeriones hurrianae
Registry Info
Lifespan3 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyMuridae
Indian Desert Jird (Meriones hurrianae) - Taxon, Habitat & Photos | Symphony of Horizon | Symphony of Horizon