Thread by @tinkeringprim8

NEXT UP: 4th seeded Tree Hyrax (Dendrohyrax dorsalis) vs. 13th seeded Bank Vole (Myodes glareolus) #2020MMM

Though 'Hyrax' comes from the Greek 'Hurax', meaning "shrewmouse", our combatant the Western Tree Hyrax is much larger than either of these namesake rodents, reaching lengths up to 2 feet and weighing up to 4.5 kg (~20 stoats). #StoatsAsMeasurement #2020MMM

The fur of the Tree Hyrax is primarily gray-brown, but it has a distinct "dorsal spot" -- a scent gland covered by a lighter patch of hair -- on its back. As its name suggests, it is an adept climber, aided by flat nails and the rubbery texture of its feet. #2020MMM

From Central and West Africa, Tree Hyraxes are often found in pairs, but do not congegrate in larger groups like their more social Rock Hyrax cousins. (map from Jones 1978; jstor.org/stable/pdf/350…) #Social Distancing #2020MMM

Tree Hyraxes also differ from other hyrax species by being nocturnal foragers. #CreatureOfTheNight #2020MMM

Tree Hyrax's opponent this evening is the Bank Vole. This smol brown rodent -- only 10 cm long (1/3 a stoat) and ~20g (1/11 of a stoat) -- is found across much of Europe & NW Asia in areas of dense vegetation. (pic via @WoodlandTrust) #SoCuteItHurts #2020MMM

Excellent swimmers & accomplished climbers in their own right, Bank Voles usually live in systems of shallow burrows, which often include dedicated larder rooms. Like other voles, they do not hibernate in the winter. #2020MMM

Let us contemplate a tangled bank vole, while enjoying @mbeisen's poetic transformation of Darwin's concluding paragraph of Origin of Species blogs.berkeley.edu/2012/12/12/dar… (photo by Sean Stones) #2020MMM

Our scene tonight takes place in the Lama Forest Reserve in southern Benin. It is early evening, and Tree Hyrax is ready to descend from his perch to forage for leaves & fruits. #2020MMM

Though Bank Vole finds himself in unfamiliar surroundings, he is undaunted by the settling darkness. Bank Voles are frequently active at twilight (what scientists call "crepuscular"), and he too sets out to look for seeds, nuts, or other tasty treats. #2020MMM

But Bank Vole's search for dinner is interrupted by an odd sound. It "starts as a squeak...and then rises to a pig-like squeal and finally to a child-like scream." Bank Vole, with no nearby tunnel or nest to retreat to, freezes. #2020MMM

The "raucous shriek" does not sound like a Eurasian kestrel or tawny owl, common predators of the Bank Vole in its native habitat. Its source is mysterious. Bank Vole's heart pounds as he waits, motionless, in the ensuing silence. #DontMoveAMuscle #2020MMM

The sound again pierces the growing velvet of night! #2020MMM

Bank Vole bolts, fleeing the sound before its source, the Tree Hyrax, comes into view. "Tree hyraxes vocalize...frequently when they ascend or descend trees at night." (Djossa 2012; researchgate.net/publication/26…) #2020MMM

Surprised a #TinyTerror like the Tree Hyrax could produce such an eerie call? Here is the closely related Rock Hyrax. #2020MMM

Tree Hyrax gives a third call as Bank Vole scurries away across the forest floor, headed for quieter pastures. #2020MMM

TREE HYRAX DISPLACES BANK VOLE!!! #2020MMM