By Nancy Shefferly
Geographic Range
Apodemus agrarius is found in Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Southern Siberia, Manchuria, Korea, Southeastern China and Taiwan.
Biogeographic Regions:
palearctic
(native
); oriental
(native
).
Habitat
Black-striped field mice are commonly found in grassy fields, cultivated areas, rice paddies, woodlands and forests.
Terrestrial Biomes:
savanna or grassland
; forest
.
Physical Description
The dorsum of these mice is yellow-brown with a prominant black, mid-dorsal stripe. The total length of these animals ranges from 94mm to 116mm, of which 19mm to 21mm are tail. Females have eight nipples.
Some key physical features:
endothermic
; bilateral symmetry
.
Reproduction
Mice of this species are capable of breeding throughout the year. Females can produce up to six litters, each of up to six young, annually.
Key reproductive features:
gonochoric/gonochoristic/dioecious (sexes separate); sexual
.
Behavior
The black-striped field mouse is an agile leaper and swimmer. They dig burrows that they inhabit during the nighttime hours. Most individuals live their entire lives and die within 180 meters of their birthplace.
Key behaviors:
motile
.
Food Habits
These mice are very adaptable in their dietary habits. They eat roots, grains, seeds, berries nuts and insects.
Economic Importance for Humans: Negative
These mice frequently cause damage to crops or raid food stores. They are also potential carriers of hemorragic fever.
Contributors
Nancy Shefferly (author), Animal Diversity Web Staff.

