House Mouse
Mus (musculus) domesticus
Luch thí
Where do house mice live?
This is one of our commonest mammals. House mice like buildings (houses, sheds, warehouses, etc), especially in winter, but they can also live outdoors. On some uninhabited islands they have to live outdoors all year round.
Where did house mice come from?
The house mouse probably originated in Iran and Turkestan where it lived in rocky crevices. At some point it formed a close association with humans, and spread with them. By the Middle Ages the house mouse reached Europe. When exactly it reached Ireland is not known, but it may have been here by the Iron Age.
Do house mice live in groups?
In confined spaces, such as in a feed store, house mice live in groups, with a social hierarchy. In more open areas they are territorial.
Do house mice make burrows?
Yes, outdoor mice can make extensive burrow systems in soft earth. Indoor mice are more likely to nest in hollow walls, behind fridges, etc, in tight spaces.
What do house mice eat?
House mice were originally seed eaters, but have adapted to eat anything, including eat meat and bugs. Their preferred food is grain. Each mouse only eats 3 - 4g a day.
When are house mice active?
House mice are mainly nocturnal, being most active just after dark and just before dawn.
Do house mice make noises?
House mice make a range of squeaks, some of which humans can hear.
When are baby house mice born?
House mice can breed all year round. Young females can breed at six weeks of age. Pregnancy lasts only 20 days, and litters can be produced every five weeks. Baby mice are blind and naked, and are fed by their mother for 16 days. One female may produce 10 litters a year, with 5 - 8 young per litter. Needless to say, house mice numbers can increase at an alarming rate!
How long do house mice live?
Outdoor mice rarely live through two winters, but indoor mice may live beyond two years.
What kills house mice?
House mice are an important food for owls, kestrels, foxes, stoats, and other carnivores. Domestic cats also kill many mice. Poisons and traps, set by humans, account for many mice. But the biggest killer of house mice is cold weather.
Are house mice vermin?
Unfortunately, house mice can spread disease via their droppings and urine. They can also cause damage, chewing houses and wires. If you notice a mouse in your house, it is advisable to deal with it immediately before the population multiplies.
What is the best way to kill house mice?
Many people reach for the poison once they spot a mouse. Tragically, many other animals are also killed when they eat the poisoned mice. Barn owls are particularly sensitive. There are eco-friendly rodent poisons available, but in most houses, a mouse trap is the most efficient method.
Are house mice protected?
No - house mice are considered vermin.