Several species occur in all four southwestern deserts.
Many of the 22 occur only in California. Curious Facts Kangaroo Rats are small, seed-eating rodents of the genus Dipodomys. Kangaroo Rats, are adapted for survival in an arid environment. Many of the 22 species of Kangaroo Rats occur only in California. Kangaroo Rats have the ability to convert the dry seeds they eat into water.