What structural features define the head of Xerus squirrels concerning visual acuity and auditory reception in open landscapes?
Answer
They possess large eyes relative to head size, paired with relatively small ears that lack prominent tufts
The head structure of the *Xerus* genus reflects its need for vigilance in exposed environments. Prey species that live on the ground must maintain a wide field of vision to detect threats approaching from the open landscape, which is facilitated by their possession of large eyes relative to their overall head size. Conversely, their ears are characterized as being relatively small and held close to the head, a feature potentially minimizing heat absorption or reducing injury during maintenance activities underground. Critically, these ears lack the distinct, tufted appearance seen in some other genera of African squirrels.
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