Which mouse species has a stripe on its back? - briefly
The African striped mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio) bears a prominent dark stripe extending the length of its back. It is native to savanna and grassland habitats across southern Africa.
Which mouse species has a stripe on its back? - in detail
The rodent most commonly recognized for a distinct dorsal stripe is the African striped mouse (Rhabdomys pumilio). It displays a broad, black‑white band running longitudinally along the centre of its back, contrasting with lighter flanks. The species inhabits savanna and grassland regions of southern Africa, ranging from Namibia to South Africa. Its stripe provides camouflage among grasses, breaking up the body outline when viewed from above.
Another species with a pronounced back stripe is the striped field mouse (Apodemus agrarius). This Eurasian rodent possesses a thin, dark line extending from the head across the spine to the rump. It occupies temperate forests, agricultural fields, and riverbanks across Europe and Asia. The stripe assists in visual communication during territorial displays.
A less conspicuous example is the North American deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus). Some individuals exhibit a faint, reddish‑brown dorsal stripe, though it is not as prominent as in the previous two species. The deer mouse occupies diverse habitats from tundra to woodlands throughout North America.
Key characteristics of these striped rodents:
- Scientific name – Rhabdomys pumilio, Apodemus agrarius, Peromyscus maniculatus.
- Geographic range – Southern Africa; Europe and Asia; North America.
- Habitat preference – Grasslands and savannas; temperate fields and forests; varied environments from tundra to woodland.
- Function of stripe – Camouflage, species identification, and social signaling.
These three species represent the primary examples of mice with a visible stripe along the back, each adapted to its specific ecological niche.