What mouse has a black stripe on its back? - briefly
The African striped mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio) is characterized by a distinct black stripe running down its back. It lives in savanna and grassland habitats across southern Africa.
What mouse has a black stripe on its back? - in detail
The African striped mouse, scientifically known as Rhabdomys pumilio, displays a prominent black stripe that runs longitudinally along its back. This characteristic distinguishes it from other small rodents in its range.
The species belongs to the family Muridae and is native to southern and eastern Africa. Its distribution extends from South Africa through Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, and Tanzania, inhabiting savannas, grasslands, and agricultural fields.
Physical traits:
- Body length: 70–95 mm; tail length roughly equal to body.
- Dorsal coloration: gray‑brown with a continuous dark stripe centered on the spine.
- Ventral side: pale gray to white.
- Ears: relatively large, dark fur on the outer surface.
- Hind feet: equipped with sharp claws for digging and climbing.
Behavioral notes:
- Primarily diurnal; active during daylight hours.
- Omnivorous diet consisting of seeds, insects, and occasional plant material.
- Constructs shallow burrows or utilizes existing crevices for shelter.
- Breeding season peaks in the rainy months; litter size averages 3–5 pups.
Ecological role:
- Serves as a seed disperser and insect predator, influencing vegetation dynamics.
- Prey for raptors, snakes, and small carnivores, integrating into the local food web.
Conservation status:
- Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide distribution and adaptability to human‑altered environments.