The New Holland mouse (Pseudomys novaehollandiae) (Rodentia : Muridae) in Tasmania: a field study.

Abstract

Preliminary field observations were carried out on a population of Pseudomys novaehollandiae in a remote region of north-eastern Tasmania (Mt William National Park). P. novaehollandiae were found only in the coastal heathland that had been strongly influenced by high fire frequency. These mice dig burrows in the soft sandy substrate and are strictly nocturnal in their feeding habits. Breeding is seasonal and takes place from early November to late March. Sexual maturity is reached at minimal body weights of 15-19 g. Females are capable of producing at least two litters in a breeding season and show distinct changes in the vaginal opening both before and after parturition. They are significantly heavier than males, and have longer tails and larger ears, but there is no significant difference between the sexes in hindfoot lengths. To maintain this population at Mt William National Park, regular firing of the habitat, either naturally or by regular controlled patch-burn firing of the habitat at intervals of 7-10 years, together with control of feral cats, is recommended.