Deer Mouse - Overview
Other Names: Field Mouse, White-footed Mouse
Feasting on seeds, grains and fruit, Field Mice often aggravate farmers when they infiltrate grain silos and storage bins. These rodents are well-known carriers of the deadly Hantavirus which has caused numerous deaths in the United States. As prolific breeders, they pose serious health risks for humans and pets.
Diet of the Deer Mouse
Daily Amount:
1/10 Ounce
Daily Water:
Utilizes moisture in food
Daily Food:
Insects, nuts, seeds, berries
Habitat of the Deer Mouse
Geography:
Eastern 2/3 of the US; rural & semi-rural; do not appear in urban environments
Nest Location:
Ledges beneath decks, garages, barns, inside of cars, burrows around tree roots; Less than 30 ft from food source
Home Range:
up to 30 ft from nest
Active Periods:
Nocturnal; most feeding occurs 30 minutes after sunset and before sunrise
Reproduction of the Deer Mouse
Litter Size:
4 pups per litter
No. of Litters:
2-4 per year
Sexual Maturity:
1 month
Gestation Period:
20 days
Breeding Season:
Indoors: All year; Outdoors: Spring & Fall
