deer mouse

American  

noun

1. white-footed mouse.

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deer mouse British  

noun

1. any of various mice of the genus Peromyscus, esp P. maniculatus, of North and Central America, having brownish fur with white underparts: family Cricetidae See also white-footed mouse

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Etymology

Origin of deer mouse

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

Example Sentences

The virus can spread through the urine, feces or saliva of wild rodents, including deer mice, which are common in many parts of California, according to the California Department of Public Health.

From Los Angeles Times

In North America, deer mice are the most common carriers, according to the Mayo Clinic.

From BBC

The deer mouse is the most common vector of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in the U.S., according to the CDC.

From Los Angeles Times

Whereas the deer mouse is promiscuous -- even a single litter of pups can have four different fathers -- the oldfield mouse mates for life.

From Science Daily

Even though they are smaller, they prey upon native ground squirrels and deer mice with formidable teeth and claws that are larger than those on the mainland.

From Los Angeles Times