Dipodomys merriami arenivagus is frequently found throughout the low desert of Anza-Borrego State Park. Male and female MKR each establish individual territories. They defend their territories against other male and female MKR, primarily to protect often scarce food resources. It is typical that MKR locate multiple entrances to their burrow complex at the base of shrubs near the middle of their territory. This allows more opportunities for MKR to escape from predators.
Most Kangaroo rats are exclusively nocturnal.
Even so, they tend to avoid being outside their burrows when the moon is full. The greater the amounts of moonlight the less time MKR spend collecting food, defending their territory, or searching for mates. When the amount of moonlight is great they retreat underground in order to avoid predation. During the day, they remain in their cool burrows. They often seal entranceways to their burrows with soil to prevent exposure to heat.