MAMMALS

Pocket Mice, Perognathus spp.

Family Heteromyidae (Pocket Mice, Kangaroo Rats)

Size/Weight: approx. 5–7" long with tail; approx. less than 1 oz.

Range: Arid western United States

Habitat: Dry, sandy desert or grasslands

The pocket mice are part of a group of small rodents, so called because of their large cheek pouches (pockets) used to store extra food. They are compact with relatively large heads, long, thin tails, and stronger rear than front feet. Their color ranges from pale grayish to brownish with paler undersides. They are solitary and nocturnal, staying in their burrows during the day, venturing out at night to forage for herbs, seeds, and sometimes insects. They are able to survive without standing water, getting what they need through their foods.

Track size (front): 1⁄3" wide x 1⁄3" long

Track size (rear): 2⁄5" wide x ½" long

Description of Track: Track sizes listed above are averages; different species may vary. Front foot has four toes with a vestigial fifth inner toe that does not usually register. The rear foot has five toes, with the smallest inner toe developed but often not distinct. The claws are fairly long and usually present in the track. Metacarpal pads are fused, and proximal pads are normally obscured by extensive fur on the sole. Pocket mice usually travel in a bound.