Family: Heteromyidae, Pocket Mice and Kangaroo Rats view all from this family

Description Rough-furred, with distinct white spines with brown tips on rump and flanks. Grayish or yellowish buff above; whitish below; line on sides faint or absent. Tail has crest 1/2-1" (12-25 mm) long. Ears small. L 6 1/2-8 7/8" (164-225 mm); T 3 1/2-5" (89-128 mm); HF 3/4-1 1/8" (20-28 mm); E 1/8-1/4" (5-7 mm); Wt 3/8-5/8 oz (12.8-19.9 g).

Similar Species Perognathus species of pocket mice, and Bailey’s, Long-tailed, and Desert pocket mice lack spines or bristles on rump. California and San Diego pocket mice have definite line on sides.

Breeding Probably averages 4 young per litter.

Habitat Usually hot desert; in Nevada, found in seepage areas and near tamarisk or mesquite trees.

Range Southern California; also at Granite Springs, in s Nevada.

Discussion Like other pocket mice, the Spiny Pocket Mouse stuffs its cheek pouches with food, mainly seeds and other plant parts, which it then stores in special chambers in its burrow.