Micromys

Micromys is a genus of small rodents in the subfamily Murinae. The genus, which is not closely related to any other murine genus, contains two living species: the widespread Eurasian harvest mouse (Micromys minutus) of much of Europe and Asia; and the more restricted Micromys erythrotis of Vietnam, southern China, and perhaps nearby regions.Fossils of Micromys date back to the Late Miocene and include at least 10 extinct species, which form several lineages.

Geographic Range

M. minutus lives throughout Europe and northern Asia. Distribution ranges from northwest Spain through most of Europe, across Siberia to Korea, north to about 65 degrees in Russia, south to the northern edge of Mongolia. There are also isolated populations in southern China west through Yunnan. (Wilson 1993)

Habitat

M. minutus lives in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers habitats characterized by tall grasses. These would include high meadows, reed grass plots, bushland interspersed with grasses,and grain fields. In Italy and East Asia, they also make a home in rice fields. Population density may be very high in favorable environments. Originally, these mice lived in humid regions with high, long-lasting grasses growing near rivers, ponds, and lakes. With the advent of human encroachment, however, M. minutus has been forced to live along roadsides and in crop fields. When the farmer clears his land for the harvest, this mouse is left homeless. The problem is solved by the mouse either forming a shallow burrow in the soil, or finding shelter in the barn or silo. Not all mice are so lucky, however, and many mice die after being rendered homeless. (Grzimek 1990; Fact-File)