Western jumping mouse

The western jumping mouse is a small rodent native to Canada and the United States. These mice have an intriguing lineage, having evolved during the Pleistocene era, and they share a close relationship with Pacific jumping mice.

Physically, western jumping mice are quite distinctive. They have long hind feet and shorter forelimbs, which grant them their unique leaping ability. Their fur is dark greyish-brown with noticeable markings. Typically, they measure between 22 to 25 cm in length and weigh anywhere from 17 to 40 grams.

These mice inhabit western North America, favoring damp, mountainous regions near water sources. There are eleven different subspecies, each with its own specified range within this area. As omnivores, western jumping mice primarily consume grass seeds and herbs. Their population density can vary depending on the specific habitat they occupy.

In terms of behavior, western jumping mice are nocturnal creatures. They also hibernate for a significant part of the year, relying on their fat reserves to survive the dormant period. Hibernation is closely tied to the weather, and they may awaken periodically.

Predation is a constant threat for these mice. They must be vigilant against a variety of predators, including bobcats, weasels, skunks, raccoons, snakes, and birds of prey.

Reproduction for western jumping mice is a busy period. Females enter estrus shortly after emerging from hibernation and can give birth to litters of four to eight pups. These newborns are initially blind and hairless but are weaned between 28 and 35 days. On average, western jumping mice live for three to four years.