The naked mole rat lives in the thorn tree savannah of East Africa where it is hot and arid and seasonal rains sink through the sandy soil. The naked mole rat is less capable of controlling its body temperature than any other mammal. The naked mole rat s lifestyle is unique. It lives in colonies similar to those of ants or bees. Each colony has a queen that rules the colony s activities and can prevent other females from breeding.
Workers expand and maintain the tunnels and find communal food and nesting material.
Tunnel systems can be complex, with a central nest, special dormitories, nurseries, larders, and blind tunnels for use as latrines. Nonworking mole rats spend most of their time with the queen. Little is known about them, but they may defend the colony, and the queen selects a nonworking male as a breeding partner. The naked mole rat mainly eats the roots of grasses, as well as other plant parts. These also provide most of its water needs.