What is a mouse with a stripe on its back called? - briefly
A mouse bearing a dark dorsal stripe is typically referred to as a striped mouse, most often the species Apodemus agrarius (striped field mouse).
What is a mouse with a stripe on its back called? - in detail
A rodent displaying a dark longitudinal line along its back is commonly referred to as a striped mouse. The most widely recognized species bearing this pattern is the four‑striped grass mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio), sometimes called the striped field mouse.
Taxonomy and nomenclature
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Mammalia
- Order: Rodentia
- Family: Muridae
- Genus: Rhabdomys
- Species: R. pumilio
The name “striped mouse” derives directly from the characteristic dorsal stripe, which consists of four parallel dark bands separated by lighter fur. Alternative common names include “four‑striped grass mouse” and “striped field mouse.”
Geographic distribution
- Southern Africa: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique.
- Habitat range: Open grasslands, savannas, agricultural fields, and peri‑urban areas.
Physical description
- Head‑body length: 70–95 mm.
- Tail length: 80–110 mm, often longer than the body.
- Weight: 15–30 g.
- Dorsal coloration: Light brown to gray background with four dark, black‑brown stripes extending from the head to the base of the tail.
- Ventral side: Pale gray to white, lacking striping.
Behavior and ecology
- Primarily diurnal; active during daylight.
- Omnivorous diet: seeds, insects, green vegetation, and occasional fruit.
- Builds shallow burrows or uses existing rodent holes for shelter.
- Breeding season peaks in the rainy months; litter size averages 3–5 pups.
Similar species
- House mouse (Mus musculus) – lacks a distinct dorsal stripe.
- African soft‑fur mouse (Praomys spp.) – generally uniform coloration.
Identification tips
- Observe the presence of four evenly spaced dorsal bands.
- Note the relatively long tail, often exceeding body length.
- Confirm habitat: grassland or cultivated fields in southern African regions.
In summary, the term “striped mouse” identifies a specific group of Muridae rodents, most prominently the four‑striped grass mouse, distinguished by its four dark dorsal stripes, southern African distribution, and diurnal habits.