About Peromyscus californicus (Gambel, 1848)
The California deermouse, scientifically named Peromyscus californicus (Gambel, 1848), has very large ears, and its tail is longer than the combined length of its head and body. Total body length including the tail ranges from 220 to 285 mm (8.7 to 11.2 in), and the tail itself measures approximately 117 to 156 mm (4.6 to 6.1 in) long. Its overall coat is orange, mixed with black and brown hairs. This dorsal color fades to creamy-white on the belly. Its manus and feet are white. Adult California deermice are large enough to be confused with juvenile Neotoma fuscipes, a close relative belonging to the subfamily Neotominae. This species has a dental formula of 1003/1003.
