Discover the fascinating world of the Heller's Vlei Rat (<i>Otomys helleri</i>), a medium-sized rodent native to the wetlands and grasslands of southern Africa. This nocturnal herbivore, known for its unique burrowing behaviors and social structure, plays an essential role in its ecosystem as both a seed disperser and a food source for predators. Unfortunately, with a conservation status of vulnerable, urgent measures are needed to protect this remarkable species from habitat loss.