Peromyscus leucopus

Peromyscus leucopus, commonly known as the white-footed mouse, is a species of rodent in the family Cricetidae. It is native to North America and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and suburban areas.

Description

The white-footed mouse is a small rodent, typically measuring between 90 and 100 millimeters in length, excluding the tail. It has a light brown or gray coat, with white underparts and feet, hence its common name. The tail is bicolored, being darker on top and white underneath.

Distribution and habitat

The white-footed mouse is widely distributed across North America, from the Atlantic coast to the Great Plains, and from southern Canada to northern Mexico. It inhabits a variety of habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests, grasslands, and suburban areas. It is particularly common in edge habitats, such as forest edges and hedgerows.

Behavior and ecology

White-footed mice are primarily nocturnal and spend the day in nests, which they build in tree cavities, under logs, or in burrows. They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods including seeds, fruits, insects, and fungi. They are known to store food for the winter.

Reproduction

The breeding season of the white-footed mouse extends from early spring to late fall. Females can produce several litters per year, each consisting of 2-4 young. The gestation period is about 21-23 days.

Role in disease transmission

White-footed mice are known to be reservoirs for several diseases, including Lyme disease, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. They can carry the ticks that transmit these diseases to humans.

Conservation status

The white-footed mouse is considered to be of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its wide distribution and large population.

See also

• Peromyscus
• Rodent
• Lyme disease