Species › Mammals › Deer Mouse

Deer Mouse

Peromyscus maniculatus

CommonMammal
Illustration of Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)

The Deer Mouse is the most abundant and widespread native rodent in North America, found in virtually every terrestrial habitat from boreal forest to desert. It has large eyes and ears, a bicolored tail, and a clean white underside contrasting with its brown-gray back. The deer mouse is a known reservoir for hantavirus, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with droppings.

Habitat
Virtually all terrestrial habitats across the continent
Diet
Seeds, berries, fungi, insects, and carrion
How common
Common

Best time to see a Deer Mouse

The best time to see a Deer Mouse is January–July, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,301 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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