Silky pocket mouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Silky pocket mouse |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Perognathus
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| Species: |
flavus
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| Silky pocket mouse distribution in brown | |
The silky pocket mouse (Perognathus flavus) is a tiny rodent that lives in dry, sandy places. Even though it's called a mouse, it's actually more closely related to pocket gophers! These little animals are known for their soft fur and special pouches. They are part of the Heteromyidae family.
Contents
What Makes Them Special?
Silky pocket mice are very small creatures. They have incredibly soft fur and long tails. Their feet are quite small compared to other animals in their family.
Digging and Finding Food
These mice have long claws. They use these claws to dig their homes, called burrows. They also use them to search through sand for seeds. Sometimes, they might even take seeds from the dens of kangaroo rats!
Their Amazing Pouches
One of the coolest things about silky pocket mice is their cheek pouches. These are like little external pockets on the outside of their cheeks. They are covered in hair. The mice use these pouches to carry and store the seeds they find.
Life in the Desert
Silky pocket mice are active at night. This means they are nocturnal. They live in very dry places, which are called arid habitats. You can find them in deserts and other sandy areas.
Staying Safe and Warm
These mice do not truly hibernate like some other animals. However, they can go into a deep sleep called torpor. During torpor, their body temperature and heart rate drop. This helps them save energy. They will stay in their burrows for a long time when they are in torpor.
Where Do Silky Pocket Mice Live?
Silky pocket mice are found in North America. Their homes stretch across parts of the United States and Mexico. They prefer sandy, dry areas where they can easily dig and find seeds.
See also
In Spanish: Perognathus flavus para niños
