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House Mouse

(Mus domestica)

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123Pest

Overview

Birds

Biology

The House mouse can breed quickly, and by being able to have 4 - 8 litter per year, and between 5 - 8 young in each litter, their numbers can soon stack up. The gestation period is about 21 days, reaching maturity within 5- 6 weeks. Depending on the condition the average life span of the house mouse is between 5 - 12 months

Food

House mice are scavengers that feed on a diverse array of food sources, including grains, seeds, fruits, insects, and human food items. They are known to raid food storage facilities, kitchens, and garbage dumps in search of sustenance. House mice are also notorious for their ability to gnaw through packaging materials and contaminate food with their droppings and urine.

The house mouse is a small rodent species that has been closely associated with human settlements for thousands of years. Known for its adaptability and reproductive prowess, the house mouse is a ubiquitous presence in homes, agricultural fields, and urban environments worldwide.

Description

House mice are small rodents with slender bodies, pointed snouts, and large ears relative to their head size. They typically have short fur that ranges in colour from light brown to grey, with lighter underbellies. Adult house mice measure around 7-10 cm in length, excluding their tails, which can be an additional 5-10 cm long.

Habitat

House mice are highly adaptable rodents that can inhabit a variety of environments, including homes, barns, fields, warehouses, and urban areas. They are often found near human settlements, where they seek shelter, warmth, and sources of food and water. House mice are opportunistic nesters, using materials such as paper, fabric, and insulation to construct nests in secluded areas.

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