Which cranial features equip woodrats for their crepuscular and nocturnal lifestyles?
Answer
Large eyes that maximize light capture and sensitive vibrissae for probing crevices
Woodrats are primarily active during crepuscular (twilight) and nocturnal periods, necessitating specialized sensory apparatus to navigate and survive in low light. They possess large eyes that are dark and prominent, features specifically adapted to maximize the capture of available light. Additionally, their muzzle houses sensitive vibrissae, commonly known as whiskers, which function as crucial tactile sensors, allowing the animal to probe dark crevices and assess immediate physical surroundings when visual input is insufficient.
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