Asia Minor spiny mouse  (Acomys cilicicus)

Biology

Most species of spiny mice are nocturnal, but they may also be active during the morning and late afternoon (3). They are omnivorous, taking seeds, grass and insects (4). They live in groups, and females that have given birth tend to help other mothers by cleaning them and biting the umbilical cords (3). Reproduction occurs continuously throughout the year, with a gestation period of five to six weeks (3). Two to three young are typically produced per litter (4), with older mothers producing larger litters (3). Young spiny mice are highly developed at birth, their eyes tend to be open and they have a full coat of fur (4). They are fully weaned at two weeks after birth. Two to three months later the young reach sexual maturity, and average life expectancy is around three years (3).

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