dassies
Dassies are small, burrowing rodents native to southern Africa, belonging to the genus *Bathyergus* within the family Bathyergidae. Often referred to as mole rats, they are distinct from their above-ground rodent relatives due to their subterranean lifestyle and specialized adaptations for digging. The most well-known species is the Cape dwarf mole rat (*Bathyergus janetta*), though others include the Natal mole rat (*Bathyergus suillus*) and the Damara mole rat (*Bathyergus damarensis*).
These animals are primarily found in arid and semi-arid regions, where they construct extensive tunnel systems
Dassies have a streamlined, cylindrical body, short limbs, and powerful front claws ideal for digging. Their
Conservation status varies among species, with some populations declining due to habitat loss, agriculture, and predation