About Reithrodontomys fulvescens J.A.Allen, 1894
Subspecies Variation
About 17 subspecies of Reithrodontomys fulvescens are currently recognized, and these subspecies vary in both size and fur colouring.
Body Size
The total body length of the species ranges from approximately 134 to 189 mm (5.3 to 7.4 inches), with the tail measuring between 73 and 116 mm (2.9 to 4.6 inches).
Dorsal Fur Coloration
The fur is yellowish-buff or tawny, and it is relatively coarse. A streaked or speckled appearance occurs from a mix of black guard hairs and paler, banded hairs in the undercoat. A dark stripe often runs along the animal's spine.
Ventral Fur Coloration
The underparts of the body are grayish-white, and are sometimes tinged with buff.
Species Distinguishing Features
This mouse can be told apart from the larger hairy harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys hirsutus) by its pelage, skull characteristics, the pale underside of its tail, and the whitish or buff colour of its hind feet.
Karyotype
The species has a karyotype with 2n = 50.
Distribution Range
The fulvous harvest mouse has a widespread distribution. Its range extends north from Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, through Mexico, to the southwestern United States, where it occurs in Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
Habitat
Its typical habitat is grassy areas that include some shrubs, especially in regions with mesquite or pine/grass ecozones.
