The Siberian mouse, scientifically known as Apodemus peninsulae, is a small rodent native to vast regions of Northeastern Asia. This species, also commonly referred to as the Korean field mouse or Korean wood mouse, belongs to the Muridae family. Its distribution spans across diverse landscapes.
Distinctive Features
The Siberian mouse possesses physical characteristics typical of a field mouse. Adults generally measure between 76 and 125 millimeters in body length. Its tail is notably long, often nearly equaling its body length, ranging from 75 to 112 millimeters. The average adult weight is approximately 33 grams. While specific fur coloration can vary, these mice typically exhibit a coat of brown or grayish-brown on their dorsal side, usually with a paler underside.
Natural Habitat and Range
Its natural range extends through the Russian Far East, northern China, the Korean Peninsula, Sakhalin, and HokkaidÅ. The Siberian mouse thrives in a variety of environments, demonstrating a preference for more open habitats. These include shrublands, sparse bushes, and steppes, in contrast to some of its relatives that favor dense broad-leaf forests. It is also commonly found in forests, glades, grasslands, and agricultural fields situated at forest margins.
Diet and Daily Life
The diet of the Siberian mouse is omnivorous. Seeds are a primary food source, alongside fruits, green vegetation, and roots. It also supplements its diet with invertebrates. Specific plant seeds consumed include those from Quercus mongolican, Pinus koraiensis, and Corylus mandidshurica. These mice are known to gather and store seeds and fruits, a behavior that aids in their survival, particularly during periods of scarcity.
Their daily activity patterns can vary seasonally, with individuals exhibiting shorter active periods during the summer months and longer durations in autumn. These mice are known to engage in burrowing activities. Their burrows provide shelter and spaces for food storage, which is particularly important for overwintering.
Ecological Importance and Human Interaction
The Siberian mouse plays a significant role within its ecosystems as a primary consumer and food source for predators. Its feeding habits, particularly its consumption and caching of seeds, contribute to seed dispersal. This activity can influence plant community composition by selectively foraging on various plant species. It provides sustenance for various carnivores, including birds of prey and terrestrial predators.
The Siberian mouse is primarily a wild species and is not typically kept as a pet. However, it can act as a host for certain pathogens, including hantavirus, encephalitis virus, borreliosis, and leptospirosis. Despite these interactions, the species is currently classified as Least Concern, indicating a stable population.