Instead, this more aggressive species approaches other kangaroo rats and chases them away for their burrow area. In contrast, the giant kangaroo rat may be the most socially tolerant of the three species and tolerates close neighbors but keeps them away by footdrumming periodically. Competitive superiority . I am better fighter than you. During challenges for space, footdrumming may communicate the ability to win a fight.
Kangaroo rats are only one of many terrestrial species that signal with drumming.
These day-active rodents are highly social and footdrum in conjunction with vocal and visual signals to warn group members of the presence of predators. Further Reading Randall, J.A. 1993. Animal Behaviour 45, 263-287. Randall, J.A. 1994. Convergences and divergences in communication and social organisation of desert rodents.