Xplor More: The Mystery of the Missing Mouse

A deer mouse is missing and three mouse-munching predators look suspiciously well-fed. Which hungry hunter ate the little squeaker? Where did the dining go down? And how did the predator attack its snack? Use the grid and the clues to help Detective Hoot solve the mystery.

Each suspect was in only one habitat and used only one method of attack. Read the clues and draw a checkmark in each box that you know is true. Based off what you know is true, draw X’s in the boxes that you know are false. Use the grid to figure out who ate the mouse, where it happened, and how the predator attacked.

Suspects (Who?)

Coyote - Crafty and quick, this wild dog uses its excellent hearing to find mice and pounce on top of them.

Western Ratsnake - A forked tongue helps this 3-foot serpent taste the air to find its next meal.

Red-Tailed Hawk - This sharp-eyed bird soars high overhead and then swoops down to snatch a snack.

Habitats (Where?)

Forest - Oak and hickory trees keep this habitat cool and shady.

Pasture - A herd of moo cows graze on short grass, and a few wildflowers grow along a fence.

Prairie - Riots of wildflowers and head-high grasses grow in this sun-kissed habitat.

Attack Methods (How?)

Claw - Sharp claws (like those on a hawk or coyote) can puncture prey just as well as teeth.

Bite - One snap from a mouthful of teeth or a sharp beak is usually all it takes to make a mouse a meal.

Squeeze - If you hold prey tight enough — with paws, claws, or coils — it can’t catch a breath.

Clues

1. The snake said it had given its last meal a big squeeze and then swallowed it whole.

2. The hawk had been soaring over the pasture when the mouse went missing.

3. The mouse’s tail was found on the prairie. It looked like a quick bite had taken it clean off.

Solve the case

Who:

Where:

How: