How Can Humans Help the Ords Kangaroo Rat?
Some things are now being done and can still be done to help the kangaroo rat. First, people who own some of the kangaroo rat’s habitat should be aware of its need for open, sandy areas and not suddenly change the way they are using the land. Second, it is listed by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife In Canada as vulnerable and it may be reassessed again. Third, the government made a law that protects the kangaroo rat from hunting and trapping. Fourth, the government owns 84% of the Great Sand Hills, one of its major habitats in Saskatchewan and should stop any land use change that would harm the kangaroo rat. Fifth, gas drilling companies should try not to drill at night and keep as many lights off as possible when drilling near kangaroo rat home ranges. Sixth, drillers should use as few cars and trucks near the home ranges as possible. Seventh, people keep should tabs on the population. Eighth, people should not make roads or trails through the kangaroo rat’s habitat.
