This jird is found in North Africa. Coat and skull features vary by region, and its boundary with a close relative is still debated.
Comparisons of North African specimens report variation in build, coat color and texture, as well as regional differences in skull size and shape. Because its boundary with M. grandis is debated, one coat pattern should not be applied across the range.
It uses a variety of plants, including herbaceous plants and shrubs. Its diet is described as generalist and opportunistic, varying with local vegetation.
An extinction-risk assessment has not been added yet.