EURASIAN PYGMY MOUSE
Mus minutoides
DESCRIPTION
The Eurasian Pygmy Mouse (Mus minutoides) is a small rodent known for its diminutive size and agile movements. It is one of the smallest species of mouse, typically found in grasslands and scrub areas.
FUN FACTS
- The Eurasian Pygmy Mouse is one of the smallest rodents in the world | They can reproduce at a very young age, often within weeks of birth | Their small size allows them to escape many predators
QUICK INFO
Lifespan1-2 years in the wild, up to 3 years in captivity
Average Weight5-10 g
Average Length6-10 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureSolitary, though they may be found in loose groups during breeding season.
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer
- Habitat
- Eurasian Pygmy Mice inhabit grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural fields. They prefer areas with dense vegetation for cover and nesting.
- Biomes
- Grassland, Savanna
- Native Range
- Widespread across parts of Europe and Asia, particularly in temperate regions.
- Continent
- Europe, Asia
- Countries
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, Italy
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on seeds, fruits, and insects. It forages on the ground and in low vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- seeds, fruits, insects
- Social Structure
- Solitary, though they may be found in loose groups during breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 0
VU
LC
5-10 g
Weight
6-10 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Light brown to gray with a lighter underbelly.
- Lifespan
- 1-2 years in the wild, up to 3 years in captivity
- Gestation Period
- 19-21 days
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-6
- Sexual Maturity
- 6-8 weeks
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- Population status is generally stable, but local declines may occur due to habitat loss.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization poses a threat to their populations. Pesticide use can also impact their food sources.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, snakes, and small mammals.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their agility and burrowing behavior to escape predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Rare