Size	About the size of a rabbit, with a body length of 12-14" and a tail length of 8-9".
Weight	GJRs weigh 2.5 to 3 lbs with captive animals sometimes reaching 3.3 lbs.
Conservation Status	On the 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the Madagascar giant jumping rat is listed as Endangered.
Diet
Geographic Range	They are found only in a small area of fragmented forest on the west coast of Madagascar.
Where to find me in the Zoo	Small Mammal House and Dodge Rare Animal Conservation Center

Madagascar giant jumping rats have large ears and a long sparsely furred tail. They have thick fur that is usually brownish gray on the upper parts and cream color on the underside and feet. They resemble small kangaroos because their rear feet are large in comparison to the front - an adaptation for jumping. This is the largest rodent found on the island of Madagascar.

Longevity

  Little is known about their average lifespan in the wild, but in captivity they have been known to live as long as 12 years - although this is uncommon.

Behavior

Since they are small, secretive and rare, very little is known about their natural history. They are strictly nocturnal and live in complex burrows in an exclusive territory. They communicate with a wide array of sounds including trills and barks.

Reproduction

GJRs live in stable family group consisting of a monogamous pair, their current offspring, and offspring from the previous year who help raise the new litter. Unlike many other rodents, they have small litters - usually only 1 or 2. The offspring are weaned at approximately 4 weeks of age, but they often stay with their parents for two years.