Where does the springhare live?
The South African springhare is a medium-sized rodent that lives in the semi-arid areas of southern Africa, preferably in sandy plains and pans with short grasses. Despite the name, it is not a hare: it looks more like a giant jerboa with a big bushy tail. It digs burrows: the front feet toss the soil beneath the body and the hind feet kick it further back.
What does the springhare eat?
Springhares are nocturnal: they forage during the night and retreat to a burrow during the day. While sleeping in their burrows, they sleep standing, with their head and forelimbs supported. In agricultural areas, they can be considered a pest, due to their destructive feeding on crops. At least 21 species prey on them in the Kalahari, including humans.
Is the springhare endangered?
No: the IUCN lists it as Least Concern: it is not currently considered at risk of extinction. Formerly the genus was considered to have only one species, but the East African springhare is now distinguished.
