LORDS OF APATHY

June 24, 2012

LOA ANIMAL SPOTLIGHT: THE NAKED MOLE RAT

The Naked Mole Rat has little hair (hence the common name) and wrinkled pink or yellowish skin. The naked mole rat is also of interest because it is extraordinarily long-lived for a rodent of its size (up to 28 years). The secret of their longevity is debated, but is thought to be related to the fact that they can shut down their metabolism during hard times, and so prevent oxidative damage. I imagine  New Jersey Governor Chris Christie's ding dong would look like this if he became anorexic.