This streak is usually bordered on each side by two dark lines that range from light golden brownish or clay color to dark chocolate brown or almost black. The tail is scaly and thickly covered with short hairs. These medium-sized mice have a tail that is generally shorter than the head and body. From Lemniscomys, Rhabdomys is distinguished by its functional fifth digit. The skull is similar to that of Arvicanthis.
Females have four pairs of mammae.
Farther to the south it is more widely distributed, occurs at lower elevations, and has been reported in a variety of habitats, including dry riverbeds, bush and scrub country, forest edge, and cultivated areas. It is sometimes found along stone walls and in outbuildings. It seems to enjoy basking in the sun on cool days. Although not classified as arboreal, it has been seen climbing about the low branches of shrubs. It has sometimes been reported to live in burrows with a single slanting entrance that usually is located near a shrub.