Source: Wikimedia Commons
Spiny Mouse
IntermediateSpiny mouse
Unique mouse with spiny, stiff fur on the back. Highly social and can live in groups. Known for remarkable skin regeneration.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
7-12cm / 30-50g
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Mouse pellets, seeds, dried insects, vegetables
About
Spiny mice (genus Acomys) are rodents native to arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. Adults measure 8–12 cm in body length and weigh 30–70 g. Their most visible feature is a coat of stiff, spine-like dorsal hairs—modified guard hairs similar in structure to hedgehog spines, though lacking their defensive function. One of their most remarkable biological traits is their exceptional skin regeneration ability: spiny mice can lose large patches of skin as a predator escape mechanism and regrow it completely without scarring, including hair follicles and sweat glands—a capacity unique among mammals. They are social animals and do well in same-sex pairs or groups. Diet is omnivorous: seeds, insects, vegetables, and fruit. They are primarily crepuscular to nocturnal. Housing in a glass tank or well-secured cage with deep bedding is recommended. Optimal temperature is 22–28 °C. Common health concerns include dermatitis, obesity, and neoplasia. Lifespan is 3–5 years.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Africa, Middle East, and South Asia
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
7-12cm / 30-50g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Diet
Mouse pellets, seeds, dried insects, vegetables
Care Guide
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Spiny Mouse Listings
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