New Holland Mouse
Pseudomys novaehollandiae
Australia's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 14/07/2010
IUCN's Threatened Species Category
Vulnerable
Listed since: 31/12/2012
Population trend: Decreasing
Other names: Pookila
Priority Species? Yes
The Australian government's Threatened Species Action Plan 2022-2032 selected over 100 priority species derive from consultation with threatened species experts and the wider community. While all species are important, focusing on a limited number of species can help target effort and resources so that outcomes can be achieved, measured and shared.
Description
A small, burrowing native rodent, the New Holland Mouse is similar in size and appearance to the introduced House Mouse, although it can be distinguished by its slightly larger ears and eyes, and the absence of a distinctive 'mousy odour'. The species is now largely restricted to the coast of central and northern NSW, with one inland occurrence near Parkes. The New Holland Mouse is nocturnal and omnivorous, with seeds forming a main component of its diet and the species has been found to peak in abundance during the early to mid stages of vegetation succession three to five years after fire.
Threats
The threats to the New Holland Mouse are loss and modification of habitat due to land development, forestry and agriculture, inappropriate fire management, predation and climate change.