Page 14 - World of Animals - Issue #39

Adorable acrobats

Hanging by a tail

Their prehensile tails are like a fifth limb

As well as having the tiniest bodies out of The harvest mouse is one of a small
all of Europe’s rodents, harvest mice are number of mammals to have a fully
distinguishable by their long, naked tails. prehensile tail. This allows it to anchor on
These are of vital importance since they to branches as its feeds and forages, while
allow the mouse to perform a multitude of also allowing it to hold on to stalks and
tasks. Not only do they provide balance, grass as it nimbly makes its way thorough
they are also strong enough to support the woodlands, reedbeds and hedgerows. If
body’s entire weight when the rodent is it wants to put the brakes on as it heads
literally hanging around. downwards, it uses its tail to grip tightly.
“It is one of a small number of mammals
to have a prehensile tail”

Their sensitive
feet can pick up on HARVEST MOUSE
vibrations caused by Micromys minutus
other animals, which Class Mammalia
helps the mouse
detect predators.

Territory Europe and much
of Asia
Diet Seeds, insects, fruit
When the mouse Lifespan 1.5 years
climbs up a stem, Adult weight 6g (0.21oz)
its tail becomes The tail is covered with 120 Conservation status
a balance. On the to 150 rings and the end 2cm
way down, it can be (0.79in) is constantly gripped
used as a brake. around grass stems.
LEAST CONCERN
Its bicoloured
prehensile tail is 5-6cm
(1.97-2.36in) long, which
is roughly the same
length as its tiny body.

The forefeet are highly dexterous
and are mainly used for eating. The
grippable hind feet and tail let it
leap and swing between vegetation.

Harvest mice are
covered in so‚, thick

fur and they weigh
roughly the same as
a small coin.

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