Heteromyinae

Heteromyinae is a subfamily of heteromyid rodents. These rodents are native to North America and are commonly known as pocket mice and kangaroo rats. The subfamily is characterized by their external fur-lined cheek pouches, which they use to carry food and nesting material. Heteromyinae are primarily seed-eaters and play an important role in seed dispersal. They are also known for their adaptations to arid and semi-arid environments, including efficient water conservation and saltatorial locomotion.

The subfamily Heteromyinae contains two tribes: Heteromyini and Dipodomyini. The tribe Heteromyini includes the genera Heteromys and Liomys, commonly referred to as spiny pocket mice and smooth pocket mice, respectively. These genera are found in Mexico and Central America. The tribe Dipodomyini includes the genera Dipodomys and Microdipodops, known as kangaroo rats and kangaroo mice. These genera are found in western North America, ranging from the Great Plains to the Pacific coast.

Pocket mice and kangaroo rats are generally small to medium-sized rodents. They exhibit a range of physical characteristics, but many share large hind feet, long tails used for balance, and prominent incisors. Their coloration typically provides camouflage against their environment, often in shades of brown, gray, or buff. They are mostly nocturnal, emerging from their burrows at dusk to forage. Their burrows provide shelter from predators and extreme temperatures.

Reproduction in Heteromyinae varies among species, but they generally have small litter sizes and a relatively short gestation period. Parental care is typically provided by the female. Their ecological roles include being a food source for various predators, such as owls, snakes, and mammals, and contributing to soil aeration through their burrowing activities. Conservation status varies across the different species within Heteromyinae, with some facing threats due to habitat loss and degradation.