What does a small field mouse look like? - briefly
The species «Mus musculus» measures about 6–10 cm in body length, with a slender brown‑gray coat, a pale belly, a pointed snout, and relatively large rounded ears. Its tail is roughly equal to the body length, covered in fine hairs and often slightly darker than the dorsal fur.
What does a small field mouse look like? - in detail
A small field mouse presents a compact body measuring roughly 6–9 cm from nose to the base of the tail, with a tail length of about 5–8 cm. The weight typically ranges between 10–25 g, reflecting a lightweight build adapted for rapid movement through grass and low vegetation.
The fur is dense and soft, displaying a dorsal coloration that varies from brownish‑gray to reddish‑brown, often interspersed with darker speckles. The ventral side is markedly lighter, usually pale gray or creamy white, creating a clear contrast that aids identification. Seasonal molts may cause the coat to become thicker and slightly darker during colder months.
Key anatomical features include:
- Ears: proportionally large, rounded, and sparsely furred, providing acute hearing.
- Eyes: relatively large, dark, and positioned laterally, granting a wide field of vision.
- Whiskers: long, stiff, extending forward from the snout, serving as tactile sensors.
- Tail: covered with fine hairs, semi‑naked, tapering to a rounded tip; it functions as a balance organ during climbing and rapid sprinting.
Limbs are short yet muscular, ending in small, dexterous paws equipped with sharp claws that facilitate digging and climbing. The overall silhouette is streamlined, enabling the mouse to navigate tight spaces within grass stems and leaf litter efficiently.