PHOENIX — The Phoenix Zoo announced the arrival of 24 naked mole rats, the latest unusual residents to join its collection. The small, nearly hairless rodents now occupy a specially designed habitat in the zoo’s main plaza, where guests can observe their distinctive behavior up close.
Unique social structure draws visitor interest
According to Bert Castro, President and CEO of the Phoenix Zoo, the naked mole rats are organized into two separate colonies, each led by its own queen. “Much like bees and ants, the naked mole rats live in highly‑organized colonies where the queen reigns over her own colony,” Castro explained. He added that the zoo has previously welcomed unusual animals, but this may be the first time it can proudly call the new residents a “nudist colony.”
Educational opportunities for families
Zoo staff emphasize that the exhibit offers a chance for families to explore an extraordinary example of animal adaptation. “From their unusual appearance to their fascinating social structure, they’re a wonderful example of just how extraordinary the animal kingdom can be,” said Castro. He encouraged guests to learn how the rodents dig complex tunnel systems with their prominent front teeth and how they thrive in an underground lifestyle.
Native to East Africa, naked mole rats spend most of their lives below ground, navigating dark tunnels with the aid of a few fine hairs that help them sense their environment. Despite their name, they are not completely hairless and are not true moles. Their longevity also sets them apart; some individuals can live more than 30 years, an impressive span for rodents.
What visitors can expect
The new habitat features viewing windows that allow guests to watch the colonies’ daily activities, from foraging to cooperative care of the young. Staff members will be on hand to answer questions and share insights about the animals’ eusocial behavior, where each member takes on specific roles to maintain the colony’s underground home.
“We can’t wait for our guests to meet them, learn about their incredible adaptations and discover that sometimes nature’s most fascinating creatures come without fur – or a wardrobe!” Castro added.
Supporting the zoo’s mission
The addition of the naked mole rats aligns with the Phoenix Zoo’s broader mission to inspire conservation and education through engaging animal experiences. By showcasing species that are rarely seen in U.S. zoos, the institution continues to provide unique learning opportunities that reinforce the value of wildlife stewardship for the community.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by the main plaza during regular zoo hours to see the new residents. The exhibit is open year‑round, and the zoo plans to host special talks and interactive programs focused on the biology and conservation of these remarkable mammals.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
