Desert rat near me occasionally, revolting creature (7)

I believe the answer is:

manatee

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'creature' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both animals as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'desert rat near me occasionally revolting' is the wordplay.
'occasionally' indicates alternate letters (letters taken at regular intervals or occasions).
'revolting' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'desert'+'rat'+'near'+'me'='desertratnearme'
The alternating letters of 'desertratnearme' are 'eetanam'.
'eetanam' back-to-front is 'MANATEE'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for manatee that I've seen before include "Sea cow - emanate (anag)" , "Large swimmer" , "Beast" , "big creature" , "Sea denizen" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.