Heteromyidae

views updated Jun 11 2018

Heteromyidae (kangaroo rats, pocket mice, spiny mice; order Rodentia, suborder Sciuromorpha) A family of nocturnal, burrowing rodents, most of which are adapted for jumping, having elongated hind feet and usually a long, haired tail. The limbs are pentadactyl and the fore limbs bear powerful claws. Heteromyidae are distributed throughout the New World from British Columbia to the northern part of S. America. There are many species.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

pocket mice

views updated May 29 2018

pocket mice See HETEROMYIDAE.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

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Heteromyid rodents

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