Southern Bog Lemming

Southern Bog Lemming Synaptomys cooperi

Identification
This small rodent has brown fur and a short tail. It is associated with moist grassy habitats.

Location
Uncommon statewide

Size
1 to 2 ounces

Diet
It feeds on grasses sedges and seeds.

Habitat
It occurs in wet meadows and marshes.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is secretive and creates runways in dense vegetation. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs throughout the year.

Population
The population is stable but localized.

History
It has long been present in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It rarely interacts with humans.

Facts
It is one of the least observed small mammals in Ohio.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Grasses sedges seeds | Wet meadows bogs marshes | Statewide but scattered