ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Deer Mouse

 Deer Mouse

deer mouse
An interesting fact about this species is that when disturbed, they may drum their front paws rapidly up and down against a hard surface. This may serve as a warning signal to other deer mice.

deer mouse tracks

Deer Mouse Track
(Click track to enlarge)

Deer Mouse
Peromyscus maniculatus

At-a-Glance

• Typical Foods: omnivorous: eats a wide variety of plant and animal matter, including seeds, fruits, flowers and insects.

• Ohio Status: Species of Concern 
Description
The deer mouse is about the size of a common house mouse. Their color ranges from pale gray to deep reddish brown. The tail is always sharply bicolored; it is white below and dark above.

Habitat and Habits
This species is very adaptable and inhabits nearly every dry-land habitat within its range. They can be found in forests, grasslands, brushlands, agricultural fields and deserts.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Deer mice will nest in burrows, trees and buildings. They may have litters containing 1 to 11 young, although the average litter has five or six. Usually two to four litters are produced each year. The young are altricial at birth, but develop very quickly.