Where’s Wildlife · Mammal Field Guide
Mus musculus
Pronounced (approx.): MUSS MUS-kyoo-lus
A tiny introduced mammal that has spread widely alongside people.
House Mouse. Select the image to browse all 5 photographs.
INTRODUCED IN NORTH AMERICA
Small gray-brown body
Pointed muzzle and rounded ears
Long, sparsely haired tail
Compare views, markings and body shapes in the photographs below.
The House Mouse has a small body, pointed muzzle, prominent rounded ears and a slender tail with very short, sparse hair. Fur is commonly gray-brown, with somewhat lighter underparts. The feet and tail lack the conspicuous white pattern of some native mice.
Many small rodents look similar in a quick glimpse. Compare tail length, ear size and the contrast between back and belly. Voles usually look stockier, with smaller-looking ears and a shorter tail. A photograph may not show enough detail for certainty.
House Mice eat seeds and grains but readily use other foods. They occupy buildings and farm structures as well as outdoor habitats. Small openings and sheltered spaces provide routes and nesting sites close to food.
They often forage at night and use nests made from soft available material. Young are born helpless and develop quickly. When food and shelter remain favorable, reproduction can continue for much of the year.
North American populations originated through human transport.
Many native mouse species have different markings and habitats.
Seeds and grains are only part of its possible diet.
The House Mouse is introduced in North America and has been transported widely around the world by people. Its presence in a region should not be confused with the native status of other mice that live there.
Explore reported sightings on iNaturalist. Observation records are not a complete range map.