Biology
Thermoregulatory Strategies of Desert Rodents in Extreme Heat
Quick fact
Some desert rodents, such as kangaroo rats, never drink water in their entire lives. They obtain all the moisture they need from the metabolic water produced when their bodies break down the dry seeds they eat.
Why this is interesting
Imagine trying to survive a day in the scorching desert, where temperatures can exceed 50°C (122°F) and water is almost nonexistent. Yet, tiny rodents like kangaroo rats thrive there—how do they do it?