Common Name: Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse

Scientific Name: Peromyscus maniculatus

Habitat:

The Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse primarily inhabits grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands across the central and southeastern regions of the United States. This species is often found in areas with dense vegetation and ample cover, which provides shelter and foraging opportunities. Additionally, they can be spotted in agricultural fields and suburban areas where natural greenspaces exist.

Physical Characteristics:

The Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse is a small rodent, typically measuring between 6 to 8 inches in total length, including its long, delicate tail. Its fur is characterized by a rich, cinnamon-brown color on the dorsal side, with lighter cream or gray underparts. This species has large, prominent eyes and rounded ears, which aid in its nocturnal lifestyle. Its slender body shape and long tail help it navigate through the grasslands and avoid predators.

Behavior:

Known for its nocturnal habits, the Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse is most active during the night, foraging for food and engaging in social interactions. They are also known for their ability to dig complex burrow systems, which provide refuge from predators and harsh environmental conditions. Their agility and speed help them evade threats, making them fascinating subjects for behavioral studies.

Diet:

The diet of the Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse primarily consists of seeds, grains, and various plant materials. During warmer months, they may also consume insects and other small invertebrates to supplement their nutritional needs. Their foraging behavior is essential for seed dispersion, playing a critical role in maintaining the health of their grassland habitats.

Reproduction:

The Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse breeds throughout most of the year, with peak breeding activity occurring in the spring and summer months. Females typically give birth to litters of 3 to 6 offspring after a gestation period of around 25 days. The young are born blind and hairless but develop quickly, beginning to explore their surroundings within a few weeks of birth.

Conservation Status:

The current conservation status of the Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse is classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat loss due to agriculture and urbanization poses potential threats, and ongoing monitoring is essential to ensure their populations remain stable.

Interesting Facts:

Despite their small size, Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mice are known for their impressive adaptability to a variety of environments. Their remarkable ability to reproduce quickly allows them to recover from population declines effectively. Additionally, they are often used in scientific research to study rodent behaviors and ecology.

Role in Ecosystem:

The Cinnamon-colored Oldfield Mouse plays a vital role in its ecosystem as both a seed disperser and a prey species for various predators, including birds of prey and snakes. Their foraging habits contribute to the health of grassland ecosystems, promoting biodiversity through their interactions with plant species. Their presence is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance within their habitats.