Aztec mouse
The Aztec mouse is a species of rodent in the family Cricetidae. It is a species of the genus Peromyscus, a closely related group of New World mice often called "deermice". It is native to southern Mexico and parts of Central America.
Description
The Aztec mouse is a typically sized member of its genus, with a total length of, about half of which is made up by the tail. The fur is ochre mixed with black over the upper surface of the body, a brighter reddish color at the sides, and pale buff beneath. The tail is also paler on the underside, and often ends with a white tip. The feet are white, with hairs on the soles of the hindfeet, one of the features that allows it to be distinguished from the otherwise similar looking, and more widespread, brush mouse.Distribution and habitat
Aztec mice are found in three disjunct regions of southern Mexico, in southern Guatemala and Honduras, and in much of El Salvador. Four subspecies have been identified:P. a. aztecus - the centers of Veracruz and GuerreroP. a. cordillerae - El SalvadorP. a. evides - OaxacaP. a. oaxacensis - extreme eastern Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guatemala, and HondurasThe mice live in mountainous regions, between altitude. Here they are found in the limits of humid highland forests, ranging from cloud forests to highland coniferous forest dominated by juniper and pine. They are also found in sugar cane and coffee plantations.