The Giant Pouch Rat is a large rodent native to Africa, particularly found in countries like Tanzania and Democratic Republic of the Congo. These rats can grow up to 3 feet long, including their tail, and are known for their distinctive cheek pouches, which they use to store food. They primarily inhabit forests and grasslands, where they forage for fruits, seeds, and insects. Giant pouch rats are also recognized for their intelligence and trainability. They have been used in various roles, including detecting landmines and diagnosing diseases like tuberculosis. Their keen sense of smell and ability to learn commands make them valuable in these important tasks.