The subspecies N. e. vulturnus is slightly paler than N. e. Neotomys is easily identified by a bright rufous nose, unusually long guard hairs, and broad incisors, the upper ones having a narrow groove at the outer corner. Although it has the usual mouselike body, Neotomys is quite stockily built.
Females have eight mammae.
Available evidence indicates that this mouse prefers grassy areas with scattered shrubs, along the banks of streams and marshes, at elevations of 3,400-4,525 meters. It is not generally present in rocky areas. It is active both day and night. Individuals living at higher elevations are possibly more active during the warmth of the day, whereas those inhabiting somewhat lower elevations are nocturnal. Apparently, this genus is not abundant and its range is generally isolated from those of other rodents.