This is the most likely species of mouse seen in our two nature centers, although they are mostly nocturnal and rarely seen during the day. They have brown backs and white bellies with long tails, but shorter than the combined length of their head and body.
This species lives less than two years on average. By the end of summer there may be up to 20 individuals per acre with breeding females defending their territories. The specimen in these images (A-D) was photographed in early October and was unusually cooperative.
These mice are as agile above ground in brush and trees as on and below the ground, often using abandoned bird’s and squirrel nests for their own.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.