[3] Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical high-altitude grassland,[1] where it can reach densities of up to 2,600 individuals per square kilometre.

[1] Where the two species overlap, it is the main prey of the endangered Ethiopian wolf (Canis simensis).

[3] Big-headed African mole rats are highly distinctive in their large size, especially that of their heads.

[3] While the other mole rats not only live but also feed underground, this species mostly forages above ground, by digging a new tunnel to a patch of herbage.

These mole rats have evolved defenses other than flight, though, being very cautious and having incisors large enough to severely injure potential predators.