Namaqua Rock mouse
wildlife of Namibia
Introduction: The Namaqua rock mouse (Aethomys namaquensis) was originally described by a Scottish surgeon, naturalist, explorer and zoologist, Sir Andrew Smith in 1834 in Namaqualand, hence the name. In Namibia's rocky areas it outnumbers all other rodents as it prefers a habitat of crevices. They will nest in the forks of trees in the absence of outcrops and do not a burrow.
It can be confused with the red veld rat, but has a slightly different dental structure. Namaqua rock mice are communal, terrestrial and nocturnal creatures.
Distribution: Occurs throughout Namibia except for areas of the Skeleton Coast and the far central north regions of the country.
Diet: Omnivorous but is known to prefer seeds of grass amongst other available vegetation.
Colouring: Yellowish-brown to reddish upperparts with a white belly.
Breeding: From between 2-7 young, averaging 3 per litter, are born in the warmer months. Young cling to their nipples when the mother is out on foraging expeditions.
Size: Head body length of 110mm. Tail 148mm. Weight: 58g.
Dabis Guest Farm
A working farm in southern Namibia. Offers an insight into sheep farming is this arid region
Duwisib Castle Camping
The completely off his rocker 'Baron' von Wolf built this castle in the middle of nowhere. Rumours abound about this gun toting, cross dressing loon - the campsite is not as interesting!
Helmeringhausen Hotel
The settlement of Helmeringhausen consists of little more than a hotel, a petrol station and an agricultural museum. Luckily the hotel is a good one, with friendly owners.
Namtib Guest Farm
Situated in the Tiras mountains, an owner run guest farm that offers a warm welcome and even better scenery
Sinclair Guest Farm
A small reasonably priced guest farm - geologists are sure to enjoy the abandoned copper mine
