Somali pygmy gerbil

The Somali dwarf gerbil ( Microdillus peeli ) is a rodent of the subfamily gerbils and the only species of its genus. It is not identical with the Somali gerbil ( Ammodillus imbellis ).

Description

This gerbil reached only a head-body length of 6-8 cm and a tail length of 5.5 to 6 inches. Their fur is yellow-brown on the top, the belly and the limbs are whitish. It is characterized by a white spot behind each ear. The soles of the feet are hairless.

The Somali dwarf gerbil is endemic to Somalia and possibly occurs in neighboring countries. It inhabits steppes, rocky areas and semi-deserts.

The foraging occurs at night. During the day the animals rest in underground construction.

The IUCN lists the Somali dwarf gerbil as not threatened (Least Concern ).