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Jerboas are usually omnivores. They eat seeds, grains, roots, sprouts, and cultivated vegetables. But they'd better watch out! Bedouin farmers sometimes catch and eat jerboas that become pests to their crops. Jerboas get most of the water they need from the plants they eat. When they do need some water, they simply scoop up a drop with their paws and lick it off.

The Four-Toed Jerboa (Allactaga tetradactyla) is an endangered species, but they can be found in the coastal plains of northern Egypt. They have long ears, long hind legs to help them jump, and short front legs. Watch the video below for a glimpse of another endangered jumper - the Long-Eared Jerboa. These rodents live in the deserts of China and Mongolia. Learn more this jerboa about other endangered species at EDGE of Existence program (Environmentally Distinct and Globally Endangered).

Video: Long-eared Jerboa: extraordinary desert creature from YouTube.com

Egypt’s Biodiversity: Discover the mammals, including the Lesser Egyptian Jerboa, and other wildlife found in Egypt. You can also view maps of the various habitats and protected areas of Egypt.

Rare Big-Eared Rodent Filmed: National Geographic Video

watch more footage and listen to commentary on this long-eared rodent and EDGE