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Persian Jird

Persian Jird

Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq
Status
Least Concern

IUCN conservation assessment category

Habitat
Forest, Grassland, Freshwater, Mountain

Primary ecological niche & biome

Diet
seeds, herbaceous plants, wild berries, and soft bark

Dietary type and primary food source

Activity
crepuscular

Diurnal, nocturnal, or active patterns

Scientific Summary

GBIF Taxonomic Backbone & Wikipedia Registry Profile

Activity patterns. Persian Jirds are nocturnal and terrestrial, although some authors note diurnal activity at time of high population densities. These jirds shelter and make burrows in crevices among rocks or under slabs, always on slopes and never in flat areas. They also favor dry-stone embankments on border of upland terraces. They do not dig burrows frequently, but sometimes excavate soil to make a short system of galleries (less than 1 m below surface and 20 m long) with a single entrance. Winter burrows are more elaborate than summer ones. Persian Jirds do not hibernate, but may enter torpor during coldest days in winter.
Biology & Conservation

Ecologically, the conservation status of Persian 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 forest, grassland, freshwater, mountain, showing great physiological synergy with its surroundings. In terms of dietary preferences, it relies primarily on a diet of seeds, herbaceous plants, wild berries, and soft bark. It exhibits specialized adaptations centered around a 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 Persian Jird.

Energy & Activity Profile
Habitat & Adaptation Index
Quick Facts
Native RangeTurkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq
Habitat RangeForest, Grassland, Freshwater, Mountain
Lifespan3 Yrs
StatusLeast Concern
ScientificMeriones persicus
Registry Info
Lifespan3 years
KingdomAnimalia
FamilyMuridae