These pictures give a rare insight into the secret lives of tiny harvest mice (Micromys minutus). Photographers Jean-Louis Klein and Marie-Luce Hubert spent one year in Alsace, France photographing the adorable little creatures in a project that saw them released from captivity into the wild.
The harvest mouse is only two or so inches tall, but it’s adapted well to the reeds, wheat fields and other tall vegetation in its homeland thanks to its amazing acrobatic skills. Just look at his amazing prowess.
“The feet are specially adapted for climbing, with the outer of the five toes on each foot being large and more-or-less opposable,” writes University of Michigan’s Francesca Ivaldi. “This mouse can grip a stem with each hindfoot and its tail, leaving the forepaws free for collecting food. It can also use its tail for balance as it scurries along long grass stems.”
Visit Telegraph.co.uk to see many more wonderful photos of these awesome little creatures by Jean-Louis Klein and Marie-Luce Hubert!
[via Neatorama]
Reblogged from archiemcphee, 238 notes, June 16, 2012
