[4] The mouse was recognized as a new species in 2004 by Thomas Cucchi [fr], a research fellow at the University of Durham.

[5][4] The Cypriot mouse has characteristics that distinguish it from other European mice: bigger ears, eyes and teeth;[6] DNA tests confirmed that it was a distinct species.

[7] Its closest relative is Mus macedonicus, native to southeastern Europe through the Levant.

[8] "All other endemic mammals of Mediterranean islands died out following the arrival of man, with the exception of two species of shrew.

The new mouse of Cyprus is the only endemic rodent still alive, and as such can be considered as a living fossil," said Cucchi.