Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Genus Pseudomys Higher classification Pseudomys | |
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Similar Pseudomys, Eastern chestnut mouse, Mammal, Pilliga mouse, Smoky mouse | ||
The Hastings River mouse (Pseudomys oralis) is a species of Australian rodent in the subfamily Murinae of the family Muridae. It is found only in Australia.
Contents
Habitat
These rodents often prefer damp and moist environments, along drainage lines if necessary. They can also be found in nests that are in tree hollows close to the ground, most likely in the eucalypt forests and are made of vast types of plant materials. There has been no evidence of whether the Hastings River mouse nests with others or alone, but the rodent will live in any cavity that is close to the ground, even though tree hollows are the more known nesting site.
Ecological role
Although it is not known if the Hastings River mouse nests with other breeds of this rodent or individually, it is known that in captivity, the Hastings River mouse can eat grain. In the wild, the species adapts well to the seasons by eating various plant materials in the summer and when winter comes, the diet is supplemented by fungi. There is a breeding season in the wild that occurs from August through March. There is also mating that occurs during the winter.
Population and conservation role
There is little known on the population of this species, as the species is both rare and elusive. The Hastings River mouse is often found in New South Wales, Eastern Australia and Queensland in altitudes reaching 1200 m. The Hastings River mouse is easily handled by humans suggesting possible domesticity of this species.
Size and biology
The body and head of this species measures about 145 mm and the average tail measurement is about 140 mm, slightly larger than most other mice. It also weighs an approximate 92 g.
