Patagonian chinchilla mouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Patagonian chinchilla mouse |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Euneomys
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| Species: |
chinchilloides
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The Patagonian chinchilla mouse (scientific name: Euneomys chinchilloides) is a type of rodent. It belongs to the family Cricetidae, which includes many kinds of mice and hamsters. This small mammal was first described by a scientist named George Robert Waterhouse in 1839. You can find it in the very southern parts of Argentina and Chile, especially in a region called Tierra del Fuego.
Where Does It Live?
The Patagonian chinchilla mouse is found in Tierra del Fuego. It also lives in other parts of mainland Patagonia. These mice are quite common in the Sierras de Tecka. This area is located in the Andes mountains. Their favorite places to live are windy, bare, and rocky areas. These places are often covered with loose stones, known as scree.
What Does It Look Like?
Patagonian chinchilla mice are medium to large for a mouse. They have short tails. Their fur is very thick and dense. This thick fur helps them stay warm in their cold, windy homes.
Let's look at some average sizes for these mice:
- Their body length, from head to tail base, is usually between 103 and 143 millimeters. That's about 4 to 5.6 inches.
- Their tail can be from 62 to 90 millimeters long. This is about 2.4 to 3.5 inches.
- Their hind feet measure between 25 and 30 millimeters. That's about 1 to 1.2 inches.
- Their ears are about 18.5 to 22.2 millimeters long. This is less than an inch.
Its Daily Life and Diet
The Patagonian chinchilla mouse is a herbivore. This means it eats plants. It is also nocturnal. This means it is most active at night. They likely search for food and move around when it's dark.
See also
In Spanish: Euneomys chinchilloides para niños
