wood mouse

The wood mouse, a common rodent species in European forests and other habitats, plays an important role in the ecosystem as a food source for predators and as a disperser of seeds. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and lifestyle of the wood mouse and highlights the importance of its protection and conservation in natural habitats.

wood mouse Products

Profile: wood mouse

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Mammalia (mammals)
    • Order: Rodentia (rodents)
    • Family: Muridae (mice)
    • Genus: Apodemus
    • Species: A. sylvaticus (wood mouse)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 8-12 cm
    • Tail length: 7-10 cm
    • Weight: 20-35 g
    • Special features: Small to medium sized mouse with grey-brown fur, lighter belly, large round ears, long tail, dark eyes.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia
    • Habitat: Diverse, from deciduous and coniferous forests to hedges and bushes to gardens and fields.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Omnivorous
    • Typical food: seeds, fruits, nuts, insects, worms, bird eggs, small vertebrates.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Breeding season: spring to autumn
    • Litter size: 4-7 young per litter
    • Nest building: In burrows, under tree roots or in dense vegetation
    • Social structure: Mostly solitary, but also in colonies in suitable habitats.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 2 years in the wild
    • Threat status: Not threatened, but habitat loss and hunting by predators may affect local populations.
    • Protective measures: preservation and protection of natural habitats, avoidance of pesticide use in agriculture.
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