Sminthidae – Birch mice
A family of mouse-like jumping rodents that are found throughout Eurasia and contain around thirteen species in total
Bird mice are a common name for members of this family. These rodents inhabit the woods and underbrush of Eurasia and the subalpine meadows there. The fur of a birch mouse is a brown or yellowish-brown color, and its underside is a bit whiter. The length of their tail is one distinguishing feature. They dig extensive burrows in partially rotted tree stumps left behind after trees have fallen.
They have a varied diet that includes plants and insects, make their homes in burrows, and spend the winter underground. They can all hop around on the ground, but those that prefer to climb can do it with the help of their tails. Weasels and owls feast on them. Hibernation is their wintertime strategy.
