Brukkaros pygmy rock mouse

Introduction: The Brukkaros pygmy rock mouse (Petromyscus monticularis) is a species of rodent found only in Namibia in a natural habitat of subtropical or tropical dry shrub land. It is so named because the original specimen was taken from Brukkaros Mountain. They are a very small species with a tail shorter than the head and body. A Brukkaros pygmy rock mouse group is called a 'nest, colony, harvest, horde or even a mischief'. The females are called 'doe' and males 'buck'.

Distribution: Confined to the Brukkaros Mountain in southern Namibia, but it is possible this species may have spread further southwards.

Diet: Not known.

Colouring: The upper parts are brownish-buff, the under parts grey. The bases of the hairs on the upper parts are a slate-grey. The ears are short and dark brown in colour, the hands and feet are white.

Breeding: The young of a Brukkaros pygmy rock mouse is called a 'pinkie, kitten or pup'. Mating habits and gestation periods are unknown.

Size: A total length of around 19cm and a mass of around 20g.