White Footed Mouse

Peromyscus leucopus

Habitat

Lives across many habitats, but mostly in and near forests with deciduous trees; this excellent tree climber is usually the most abundant mouse species in a mixed woodland forest.

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Diet

This herbivore eats mostly nuts, berries, seeds, and fungi.

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Distinctive Characteristics

Large ears, brown back and white belly fur, a long tail, and large black eyes.

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Predators

The white-footed mouse is an important prey for many species of predators, and is also an important host of deer ticks during the larval stage of their life cycle, serving as a reservoir for Lyme disease.

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Nocturnal/Diurnal

Mostly nocturnal.

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Reproduction & Family Structure

Can have as many as four litters of four to six young per year.

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