Cape ground squirrels (Xerus inauris) in the Auob riverbed. The clip shows three behaviours which assist with thermoregulation. Firstly, the squirrels are using their tails to shade their back and head from the summer sun. Secondly, they are removing the warm top-level of sand to reach the moist soil below. After excavating, the squirrels are placing their bellies in the moist cooler sand to aid cooling. Thirdly, they are using their front paws to cover their bodies with sand to reduce heat from direct sunlight. These rodents live in open arid areas of southern Africa. They are social animals living in colonies numbering between 5 and 30 individuals. The colonies dig extensive burrow systems. They feed on grasses, roots, seeds and insects.