|
|
Native to the arid deserts of the southwestern
United States and northwestern Mexico, they
inhabit rocky foothills, washes, and desert
scrublands. Adapted to extreme heat and scarce
water, they spends much of their life in
self-dug burrows that provide protection from
temperature extremes and predators. Primarily
herbivorous, they feed on grasses, wildflowers,
cacti, and other desert vegetation, obtaining
much of their moisture from their food. They
can store water in their bladder for extended
periods, allowing them to survive long droughts.
Because of habitat loss, disease, predation
by ravens, and other human-related impacts,
the species has experienced significant
population declines and is considered a
conservation concern throughout much of its
range.
|