In M. pallidus the upper parts are pale creamy buff, the underparts are pure white, and the tail does not have the blackish coloration. Fat is stored in the tail and used as a source of energy during dormancy. A large head has developed because of the great inflation of the tympanic bullae into paper-thin capsules that encroach onto the upper portion of the sides of the cranium. This inflation is greater than that found in any other member of the family. The overall effect is of a furry animal flattened so much that it is wider than high.
Kangaroo mice live near shrubs growing in fine gravelly soil or windblown sand dunes.
They are restricted in habitat, occur in limited numbers, and make burrows in soft ground with the entrance usually close to a shrub. Kangaroo mice move about by leaping with relatively large and powerful hind legs, the tiny forelegs barely touching the ground, if used at all. The tail also touches the ground only lightly, if at all, and is used as a balancing organ. These small rodents are nocturnal and are very sensitive to light. If forced into brightness, they seek the shade or darkest corner and turn their backs to the source of light.