Shortridges mouse

Introduction: Shortridge's mouse (Mastomys shortridei) is similar to the Natal multimammate mouse, but the female of this species only has 5 pairs of mammae. The tail is also shorter with a darker overall colouration. They occur in areas of open water, can be found in reedbeds and swamp grasses and therefore are not known to burrow.

Distribution: Bwabwata National Park and Mahango Park.

Diet: Grass.

Colouring: Smoky grey, almost black fur with grey underparts. The upper parts of the hands and feet are white.

Breeding: Little is known of this mouse's reproductive habits at present.

Size: Head and body length: 113mm

Tail: 104mm

Weight: 67g