We were reminded again yesterday that we share our address with various wild beasts. During breakfast, Marilyn let out a scream when she saw a furry shape scurrying across the kitchen floor. One of the cats showed some interest but was too slow. It disappeared under the bed. We chucked the other cat into the room to do its bit but there was no real enthusiasm to earn their keep and the little ball of fur made a break for freedom.
I had enough time to note that it was a Marsupial Mouse, before it took refuge behind the dishwasher, The two cats sighed with relief and went back to their snooze. While we were watching TV in the evening, it came out from its hiding place and hurried into the laundry. I opened the back door and it rushed outside. A happy ending, at least.
I checked the internet and found it is an interesting animal. Normal lifespan is about 32 weeks and they mate in the winter. Their mating habits have scientists is a tizz. Apparently, they copulate for up to 14 hours and then the males all die (of exhaustion?). Maybe the mouse was in our house trying to avoid the stresses of living up to the expectations of his race.
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