E4Change works in the centre of the naked mole rat range, which is hot and dry. Many adaptations allow them to thrive in this environment such as teeth on the outside of their lips so that they can dig without getting dirt in their mouth. They live in colonies, much like ants, and spend most of their time underground, where the temperature changes less. Since they spend little time in the light, they have poor eyesight, but can communicate through touch, smell, and noise. They live in arid areas with little agriculture and minimal development, so they are not much of an agricultural pest, but there is some expansion of agricultural activities into their range which may lead to problems for the future. The naked mole rat lives in a way that is very different from rodents living in other parts of the world.

E4Change is also adapted to the environment of this area. Ideas that might work in other parts of the world cannot be brought into the area and expected to work in the same way. We recognize that there are elements of the local climate which affect how people live, and which we need to take into account when designing what we do. We provide services that people in the area have asked for and which they feel would meet their needs. We do not work alone, but as part of a larger community.

More information on naked mole rats can be found at the Toronto Zoo’s website.