While several animals have evolved to survive in desert climates without the need for much water, the kangaroo rat does not need to drink any water at all. They are able to get the moisture they need from the food that they eat, so additional sources of water are unnecessary.
This small rodent is native to western North America, particularly the deserts of the southwestern United States. The kangaroo rat survives without water thanks to its primary diet of seeds. The animal's metabolism breaks down the nutrients in the seeds, thus giving it the nutrition it needs to survive when a water source is not prevalent. Where as many beings, including humans, lose water through their skin and respiratory systems, the kangaroo rat's low metabolism reduces the loss of any water, preventing the animal from becoming dehydrated.
