The kangaroo rat has adapted to extreme heat in the desert by being nocturnal.

The kangaroo rat is a remarkable desert animal that has adapted to the extreme heat of the Sonoran Desert by becoming nocturnal. During the scorching daytime heat, it stays hidden in its burrow to conserve water and avoid the intense sunlight. At night, when temperatures drop, the kangaroo rat emerges to forage for seeds and other food sources. This behavior helps it minimize water loss, as the cooler nighttime air reduces evaporation. The kangaroo rat’s nocturnal lifestyle is key to its survival in the harsh desert environment.