Egyptian Spiny Mice
EGYPTIAN SPINY MICE FACT SHEET
A Mouse With Mystique
Memorable Mice
Egyptian spiny mice get their name from their bristly-looking fur
that has the appearance of spines and quills. The bristles help the mice
protect themselves and their fellow spiny mice. When eaten by birds and
other predators, the bristles scratch the throat of the predator. The
predator remembers the unpleasant experience and avoids eating spiny
mice again.
Moody Mice
Spiny mice are very active and energetic and are often very amusing
to watch. The males tend to be more aggressive toward each other.
Motherly Mice
Females will act as “surrogate moms,” often helping
other females give birth and even nursing their babies. Spiny mice give
birth to two to four babies at a time, unlike the U.S. species, which
typically have 10 to 12 babies per litter.
Mob of Mice
Spiny mice live in large family groups and are very social in the wild.
A Mouse Menu
Spiny mice prefer to feast on plant matters, but adapt to anything edible.
Mice Measurements
Spiny mice weight 3 to 5 ounces and are 5 inches long, not including their tail.
Additional Facts
Scientific Name: Acomys Cahirinus
(pronounced uh-SO-miss suh-he-RYE-nus)
Class: Mammal
Range: Egypt, North Africa and the Middle East
Habitat: Rocky areas with dense vegetation
Life Expectancy: 4 to 5 years
Conservation Status: Not endangered
Oregon Zoo Exhibit
Africa Savanna
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