Arid zones of northeastern and southwestern Africa. Color is mostly tan with variations of reddish brown on legs and undersides, also black tiped tail. No significant dimorphism. Feamle has 6 or 8 teats.
Preferred habitat varies.
In northeast arid zones, found mostly in Acacia woodland and savanna edge. In southwestern arid zones, can be found in most habitat types. Depending on specific geographic area, can be both nocturnal and diurnal. In habitat with heavy human impact, mostly nocturnal. The majority of its diet is made-up of small rodents and insects, supplemented occasionally by scavenging food from larger predators.