The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Science & Nature›Mammal›Jerboa
Science & Nature • Mammal

Jerboa

Jerboas are small, hopping desert rodents in the family Dipodidae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jerboas are small hopping desert rodents in the family Dipodidae. They are adapted to arid environments with long hind legs, long tails, and enlarged feet. Around 33 species are recognized, found across northern Africa and parts of Asia.

Classification

Jerboas are rodents in the family Dipodidae. They are related to other jumping rodents such as jumping mice and birch mice.

Physical characteristics

Jerboas have short forelimbs, long hind limbs, long tails, and large feet adapted for jumping. Their body form gives them a kangaroo-like appearance.

Habitat and range

Jerboas live in deserts, semi-arid plains, and steppes across northern Africa and Asia. They are adapted to harsh, dry climates and usually shelter in burrows.

Behaviour and diet

Jerboas are mostly nocturnal and avoid daytime heat. They feed on plant material such as seeds and roots, and some species also eat insects.

Key facts

  • Jerboas are small desert rodents known for their long hind legs and tails.
  • They belong to the rodent family Dipodidae.
  • They are typically nocturnal and spend daylight hours in burrows.
  • Jerboas are found in arid regions of northern Africa and Asia.
  • Many species can leap several metres in a single bound.
🍁
Canadian context

Jerboas are mainly of zoological interest to Canadian readers through mammalogy, desert ecology, and wildlife education; they are not native to Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is a jerboa?
A jerboa is a small desert rodent in the family Dipodidae, known for moving by hopping on its long hind legs.
Where do jerboas live?
Jerboas live in arid regions of northern Africa and Asia, including deserts, dry plains, and steppes.
Are jerboas nocturnal?
Yes. Jerboas are generally nocturnal and are active at night.
How many species of jerboa are there?
About 33 species are commonly recognized.
What do jerboas eat?
Jerboas usually eat seeds, roots, and other plant matter, and some species also eat insects.

References

  1. Britannica Kids — https://kids.britannica.com/students/article/jerboa/327554
    Supports: General description, habitat, size, nocturnal behaviour, and number of species
  2. Fact Animal — https://factanimal.com/jerboa/
    Supports: Family Dipodidae, roughly 33 species, nocturnal and solitary behaviour, and broad geographic range
  3. A-Z Animals — https://www.a-z-animals.com/animals/jerboa/
    Supports: Rodent family Dipodidae, jumping adaptation, and physical characteristics
  4. HowStuffWorks — https://animals.howstuffworks.com/mammals/jerboa.htm
    Supports: Bipedal locomotion, diet, and relation to other jumping rodents