souris

Souris is the French word for mouse, a small rodent within the family Muridae. In common usage it refers to the many species of small gnawing mammals, especially the house mouse (Mus musculus) and its close relatives. Mice occur on most continents and inhabit a wide range of environments, from forests and fields to cities and farms.

Mice are small and typically possess a slender body, a pointed snout, relatively large ears, and a long tail. Body length generally ranges from about 6 to 10 centimeters, with tails of comparable or greater length. Fur color varies by species but is commonly brown, gray, or white.

They are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, grains, fruits, insects, and other available foods. Mice are usually nocturnal and social, often living in nests or burrows or seeking shelter in buildings. They communicate through vocalizations, scent marking, and tactile signals, using their whiskers to navigate in darkness.

Reproduction is prolific: females can produce several litters per year, each after a gestation of roughly 19 to 21 days. Offspring mature quickly and reach reproductive age within a few weeks, contributing to their high population growth in favorable conditions.

Humans interact with mice as both pests and model organisms. They can transmit diseases and contaminate food, yet they are also important in scientific research, genetics, and neuroscience. Some species are abundant and widespread, while others face habitat loss or regional declines. Overall, mice are a widely distributed and ecologically versatile group of small rodents.