Here’s the detailed species profile for the Florida Mouse:
Description
The Florida mouse, scientifically known as Podomys floridanus, is a species of rodent in the family Cricetidae. It is the only species in the genus Podomys, making it the sole mammal genus endemic to Florida. This small mammal is also commonly referred to as the big-eared deermouse.
Appearance
The Florida mouse is characterized by its distinctive features, including large ears and a bi-colored tail. It has soft fur that ranges in color from pale gray to reddish-brown on the upper body, while the underparts are white to pale gray. Its large eyes and ears are adapted to its primarily nocturnal lifestyle, aiding in navigation and foraging in its natural habitat.
Distribution
Endemic to Florida in the United States, the Florida mouse is primarily found in the central and northern regions of the state. Its distribution is limited to specific habitats within Florida, and it is not found in any other regions or countries. The species is known for its narrow preferences for fire-maintained, xeric upland habitats occurring on deep, well-drained soils, especially scrub and sandhill ecosystems.
Habitat Preferences
The Florida mouse exhibits a strong preference for specific habitat types, particularly scrub and sandhill ecosystems characterized by deep, well-drained soils. These habitats are essential for the survival and well-being of the species, providing the necessary resources for nesting, foraging, and shelter. The species is intricately linked to these fire-maintained, xeric upland habitats, where it plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as an integral part of the local food web.
This comprehensive species profile captures the essence of the Florida mouse, shedding light on its unique characteristics, distribution, and habitat preferences.
Facts About Florida Mouse
- The Florida mouse (Podomys floridanus) can range in total length from 178mm to 197mm.
- The tail length of the Florida mouse makes up half of its body length, measuring between 79-90mm.
- Adult Florida mice typically weigh between 36.9-49 grams.
- The Florida mouse resides in some of the sparsest and driest land of Florida, often using burrows dug by other animals.
- It primarily feeds on seeds and insects.
- The species probably breeds throughout the year, with reported breeding occurring from June to March in certain areas.
- The weight of a Florida mouse at birth is approximately 2.4 grams.
- The weight of a weaned Florida mouse is around 12.5 grams.
- An adult Florida mouse typically weighs about 32 grams.
- The maximum longevity of the Florida mouse is reported to be around 89% (source: Genomics, Animal Diversity Web, NatureServe Explorer).