American gundi

American gundis (Calictenodactylidae), also known as the American comb rats, are a family of rodents of the infraorder Ctenodactylomorphi, most closely related to the African gundis (Ctenodactylidae), that originally did not exist, but have since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts across North and Central America to help boost biodiversity. American gundis are medium-sized rodents, ranging from 17 to 18 centimeters (6.6-7.0 inches) in body length, with compact bodies covered in soft fur, short legs, and large eyes. They have only four toes on all feet and the middle toes of the hind feet carry comb-like bristles, which earned them the name "comb rat". American gundis have short tails, which in some species are covered in a large fan of hair that aids in balancing as they move about their rocky and uneven environments. Their ribcages are flexible, which helps them fit into small crevices. American gundis are herbivorous, eating almost every type of available plant. Like many other desert animals, they do not drink in arid areas, obtaining all the moisture they need from their food. American gundis live in colonies of up to a hundred or more individuals, although this is much less in environments where food is particularly scarce. They shelter in existing rock crevices at night, or during midday when the sun becomes too hot for them to remain active. Most shelters are temporary, but some are occupied for years. American gundis pile onto each other for heat, especially in cold or windy weather. They are not known to hibernate. American gundi colonies have a dunghill that all the members of the colony use. American gundis are vocal animals, with a range of alarm calls and communication signals for group bonding, greetings, and alerting other American gundis of predators. All members of Calictenodactylidae thump their hind feet on the ground when alarmed. American gundis rely on their acute hearing. Females typically give birth to two to four young at a time, after a gestation period of about two months. Because of the need to preserve moisture, female American gundis produce only a small amount of milk, and the young are fully weaned by four weeks of age. On average, female American gundis are bigger than males. American gundis live about 3 to 4 years in the wild, while they live twice as long in captivity. The conservation status of all known species of American gundis is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the American gundi's wide range and their tolerance to many of the human activities.