Variable grass mouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Variable grass mouse |
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The variable grass mouse (Akodon varius) is a small rodent that belongs to the family Cricetidae. This family includes many types of mice and hamsters. This special mouse is only found in one country: Bolivia, located in South America. It lives in places that are quite high up, from about 400 meters (1,300 feet) to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level.
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What is the Variable Grass Mouse?
The variable grass mouse is a type of mouse that gets its name from two things. "Variable" means it might have different looks or live in different kinds of places. "Grass mouse" suggests it often lives in grassy areas. It's a small mammal, like many other mice you might know.
Where Does it Live?
This mouse is only found in Bolivia. Bolivia is a country with many different landscapes, from lowlands to high mountains. The variable grass mouse can live in a wide range of these places.
High and Low Homes
The mouse lives at many different elevations. This means it can be found in areas that are not very high, like 400 meters (about the height of a tall building), all the way up to 3,000 meters (which is higher than many mountains). This wide range of homes shows how adaptable this little mouse can be!
What Does it Look Like?
Like many other grass mice, the variable grass mouse is likely small and quick. Its fur color might change a bit, which could be why it's called "variable." This helps it blend in with its surroundings.
Its Place in Nature
As a rodent, the variable grass mouse plays a role in its ecosystem. It might eat seeds, fruits, or insects. In turn, it can be a food source for larger animals like birds of prey or snakes.
Why is it Important?
Every animal, no matter how small, is important for a healthy environment. The variable grass mouse helps keep its ecosystem balanced. Scientists study animals like this to understand more about nature and how different species live together.
Protecting the Variable Grass Mouse
The variable grass mouse is currently listed as "Data Deficient" by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). This means scientists don't have enough information to know if it's endangered or not. More research is needed to understand its population and how to protect it.
See also
In Spanish: Akodon varius para niños
