Species Description of Matthey’s Mouse

Common Name: Matthey’s Mouse
Scientific Name:

Habitat:
Matthey’s Mouse is primarily found in the lush temperate forests of southeastern Asia, particularly in areas with dense undergrowth and abundant leaf litter. This species thrives in humid environments, often inhabiting regions with a rich diversity of flora. Geographic locations include the mountainous terrains of Vietnam and parts of southern China.

Physical Characteristics:
Matthey’s Mouse is a small rodent, typically measuring around 10 to 12 centimeters in body length, with an additional 8 to 10 centimeters of tail length. It exhibits a soft, dense fur that is predominantly brown with lighter underparts. Distinctive features include large, rounded ears and a slightly elongated snout, which aids in foraging. Their small size and agile build make them well-suited for their forested habitat.

Behavior:
This species is primarily nocturnal, becoming active during the night to evade predators and seek food. Matthey’s Mouse is known for its social behavior, often residing in small family groups. They are proficient climbers and frequently use trees and shrubs for shelter and foraging. Their keen sense of smell aids in locating food, while their agility allows them to navigate complex environments.

Diet:
Matthey’s Mouse is an omnivorous rodent, primarily feeding on seeds, fruits, and insects. Their diet is diverse, making them opportunistic feeders, which allows them to adapt to seasonal changes in food availability. They are particularly fond of local berries and nuts, which are often abundant in their forest habitats.

Reproduction:
The breeding season for Matthey’s Mouse typically occurs in the spring and summer months. Females give birth to litters of 3 to 6 offspring after a gestation period of about 20 to 25 days. The young are born blind and helpless but grow rapidly and are weaned within a few weeks. Parental care is noteworthy, with both parents often involved in nurturing the young, which helps boost survival rates.

Conservation Status:
Currently, Matthey’s Mouse is classified as “Vulnerable” by various conservation organizations. Habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion poses significant threats to its population, necessitating focused conservation efforts to protect its natural environment.

Interesting Facts:
Matthey’s Mouse is named after the renowned zoologist who first described it. One fascinating detail about this species is its ability to communicate through various vocalizations, which is crucial for maintaining social structures within its groups. It’s also known for its remarkable agility, allowing it to escape predators effectively.

Role in Ecosystem:
Matthey’s Mouse plays a vital role in its ecosystem as a seed disperser, contributing to the growth and regeneration of forest flora. Its activities support the food web, as it serves as a prey species for larger predators, thus maintaining ecological balance. Furthermore, its foraging habits help aerate the soil, promoting healthier plant growth.