| Merriam's Pocket Mice are found in short-grass prairie, desert scrub, and open, arid brushland. They are most common where the vegetation is dense enough to provide them with seeds and some protection from predators, but not so dense that it inhibits their movements. Grazed pastures suit their needs well. Their silky fur is yellowish-orange with a slight blackish tinge on the back, and their bellies are white to pale buff. A dark stripe runs just behind the nose, and a pale ring encircles each eye. They are very similar in appearance to Silky Pocket Mice and Plains Pocket Mice. They are docile, readily tamed, and easily kept in captivity.
Sexual Dimorphism:
None
Length:
Average:
112 mm
Range:
95-121 mm
Weight:
Average:
8 g
Range:
5-9 g
References:
Allen, J.A., 1892. Description of a new species of Perognathus from southeastern Texas, p. 45. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History, 4:45-46.
Links:
Mammal Species of the World
Click here for The American Society of Mammalogists species account
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