Photoperiods plays an important role in circadian rhythm formation and maintenance.However, random and rhythmic active circadian rhythms occurs in subterranean rodents. By using video recording and focal animal sampling methods, we tested the effect of dark-light cycles on activity rhythm in Mandarin Voles (Lasiopodomys mandarinus) and Kunming (KM) Mice (Mus musculus). The results showed that: 1) light duration of 28 d did not significantly influence body mass of L.mandarinus and M.musculus , respectively; 2) there were significant differences in daily activity rhythm between the two rodent species under situation of light to dark 12 h ∶12 h; Mandarin Voles were active in both dark and light duration and Kunming Mice were mainly active in dark period; 3) L.mandarinus were little more active during time period with light, while Kunming Mice reduced their activity frequency when light was on although both species did not change their active rhythms under full dark treatment; 4) M.musculus behaved a strict circadian rhythm while L.mandarinus showed a random active rhythm. The results from our research indicated that L.mandarinus has evolutionarily adapted to subterranean environment than M.musculus which derived from ground-lived ancestor.