Variation in the Deer-Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) Along the Lower Columbia River

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Abstract
A statistical analysis of structural characters and reflectometer readings of coat color was conducted for 17 population samples of P. maniculatus from opposite sides of the Columbia R. in Washington and Oregon. On both sides of the river the mice vary from dark-colored, long-tailed forms in the west to light-colored, short-tailed forms in the east. Intergradation is more iniform on the Oregon side, but characters seem to respond in different degrees to isolating barriers and natural selection. On the Washington side intergradation is more irregular. The Columbia R. is a complete barrier to Peromyscus at its western end, but eastward seems to permit migration. There is general correlation of morp. characters with habitat: Dark-colored, long-tailed, long-eared forms are almost always found in thick forest areas; light-colored, short-tailed, short-eared forms occupy the open bunch grass and sage-brush habitat. Each sample differs in some degree, and a wide range of variation is found within each geographic race. P. m. oreas occurs with P. m. austerus and P. m. gambelii in certain localities, but several specimens indicate intermittent hybridization.

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