Species MammalsNorthern Grasshopper Mouse

Northern Grasshopper Mouse

Onychomys leucogaster

UncommonMammal
Illustration of Northern Grasshopper Mouse (Onychomys leucogaster)

The Northern Grasshopper Mouse is a highly carnivorous rodent that hunts and kills large insects, scorpions, and even other rodents, making it unique among North American mice. It is immune to the venom of the Arizona bark scorpion, a trait that has attracted research into novel pain management compounds. Males throw their heads back and emit a high-pitched howl to advertise their territory, earning them the nickname 'the tiny wolf.'

Habitat
Grasslands, sagebrush steppe, and desert scrub
Diet
Insects, scorpions, other small rodents, and seeds
How common
Uncommon

Best time to see a Northern Grasshopper Mouse

The best time to see a Northern Grasshopper Mouse is March–August, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 57 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Northern Grasshopper Mouse sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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