Found across parts of East and Southern Africa, this small rodent is named for its soft, silvery-gray fur, which gives it a sleek, almost metallic sheen when seen in the light—though it rarely emerges from its burrows. Like other mole-rats, it is perfectly adapted to a digging lifestyle, with a cylindrical body, tiny eyes, short limbs, and strong teeth that act like natural shovels. Its world is one of tunnels, roots, and soil, where it spends nearly its entire life.

Unlike the famous naked mole-rats or Damaraland mole-rats, which live in large, cooperative colonies, this species is a loner. Each individual digs and maintains its own burrow system, which can stretch for many meters underground. These burrows provide shelter, protection from predators, and access to roots and tubers, which make up the bulk of its diet. Its sharp, ever-growing incisors are not only for chewing food but also for excavating soil—meaning the Silvery mole-rat literally digs with its teeth.

Their underground life has also led to some unusual adaptations. Their tiny, almost hidden eyes suggest poor eyesight, but they rely more on their sense of touch and smell to navigate in the dark. They are also excellent at conserving water, a vital trait for surviving in arid or semi-arid environments where they often live. In fact, they obtain much of their moisture from the plants they eat, rarely needing to drink free water at all.

Because of their solitary nature, two mole-rats meeting underground often leads to aggressive encounters, with squeaks and teeth-clashing displays—it’s a reminder that they’re fiercely protective of their turf. Their silvery coat is so distinctive that it almost seems out of place for a creature that spends nearly all its time in the dark.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

DR Congo (Kinshasa)

2016

Kenya

2016

Malawi

2016

Mozambique

2016

Tanzania

2016

Zambia

2016