House Mice

House mice originated in Asia but have since spread throughout the world. Along with brown rats, they are considered to be the most widespread terrestrial mammal other than humans.

Latin/scientific name | Mus Musculus

Life span

Up to two years.

Statistics

Body length: 6.5-10cm, Weight: 12-22g.

Physical Description

House mice have brown-grey fur, with slightly lighter under-parts. They have large ears, a pointed snout and a long tail.

Distribution

Although they are thought to be native to Asia, house mice now have an almost worldwide distribution.

Habitat

They are typically found in areas near to human habitation and open fields.

Diet

They feed on practically everything, but prefer to eat cereals and insects.

Behaviour

House mice are nocturnal. Wild populations are poor competitors with other rodents, and are often displaced by other species when away from human habituation.

They are typically aggressive to each other, and fighting is common, although females have an aggression inhibiting hormone in their urine to prevent attack from other mice.

House mice build tunnel systems which may be a short tunnel with just one chamber or a complex network with several exits and chambers. Some of these chambers may contain bedding material.

Reproduction

Females produce about 5-10 litters per year, consisting of 4-8 young. The young are independent after 3 weeks.

Do you have problems with House Mice? Do you need some further information?

Click here to read our getting rid of House Mice page

For free advice, Call our office team on 0800 078 7255

or email our mouse control expert