Brants whistling rat

Introduction: Brant's whistling rat (Paratomys brantsii) is so called because of its habit of calling out to one another in times of danger with a sharp, piercing whistle. Ultrasonic calls, not heard by humans, are another form of communication. They are often seen in and around semi-arid areas of deep sandy soils, with low vegetation surrounds.

These creatures are semi-social and after breeding become solitary. Pairs of adults occupy a warren until their offspring are born. Warrens are located close to each other and provide shelter and warmth in the winter and cool from the summer desert heat.

Snakes are of a particular danger to Brant's whistling rat and they do not escape to the confines of their burrows in these instances, obviously aware that the snake will follow. Other predators include jackals, the honey badger and the pale chanting goshawk.

Distribution: Southern Kalahai Desert in Namibia.

Diet: Brant's whistling rat consumes more than 50 plant species in its diet, enabling sufficient moisture intake not to need to drink water. Succulent green foliage, twigs and gnawed branches from bushes are taken back to the burrow to be eaten.

Colouring: A browny-yellow soft body hair gradually changing to creamy-white on the belly.

Breeding: Litters of between 1-3 pups attach themselves to the mother's nipples during the first week. They are dragged around in foraging excursions, including when leaving the burrow.

Size: Body length 150mm

Tail: 93mm