The East African springhare (Pedetes surdaster), is not closely related to the hare, which is a lagomorph, but is a member of the Pedetidae, a rodent family.
Pedetes surdaster was recognised by Matthee and Robinson in 1997 as a species distinct from the southern African springhare (P. capensis) based on genetic, morphological, and ethological differences.[3] P. capensis from South Africa has fewer chromosomes (2n= 38) than does P. surdaster which has (2n = 40) and some other genetic variations.[4] The species was confirmed by Dieterlen in 2005.[1]
Unlike South African springhare (Pedetes capensis), the second and third cervical vertebrae are fused in this species.
This species is found in central and southern Kenya and most of Tanzania. A single specimen has been recorded in Uganda near the Kenya border, at Mount Moroto. It is found from sea level up to an altitude over 2,000 m.[1]
The East African springhare resembles a small kangaroo (a marsupial in the family Macropodidae of Oceania), and is possibly about the size of a rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). It is mid-brown, has large erect ears, very short fore legs, and long powerful hind legs.[5] It moves in bounds of up to 12 feet and has a long tail fringed with black hairs which provides balance. It can sit up on its haunches like a squirrel.[6][7]
The East African springhare is nocturnal and spends the day in an extensive system of burrows. It lives in semiarid grassland habitats.[1] The diet is the green parts of plants, roots and other vegetable matter, and occasionally insects.[5]
The East African springhare (Pedetes surdaster), is not closely related to the hare, which is a lagomorph, but is a member of the Pedetidae, a rodent family.
