Harvest mice facts
- They are the smallest rodent native to the UK.
- They have a prehensile tail! This means they can grip things with their tail. They have five toes on each foot with the outer toe being larger which means they can also grip grass stems with their feet.
- They build nests for their young out of grasses which they weave together to form a round hollow nest which they place finely shredded leaves and grasses inside. The females will close the nest entrance hole after giving birth and keep it shut for the first week.
- The young are born altricial but can hold onto a grass stalk at just three days old.
- Harvest mice eat seeds, grass, fruits, grains and insects.
What do harvest mice look like?
They are a small mouse, only 55-75 mm in length and weighing just 6-8 grams! Most of their fur is brown with a red or yellow tinge whilst their underside has white fur. They have a long tail which is furless at the end. They have large eyes and ears and wide feet.
Where are harvest mice from?
Harvest mice are widespread throughout Europe and Northern Asia.
Where can I see harvest mice at London Zoo?
In 2024 we welcomed two females and one male harvest mice at London Zoo. Since they are mostly nocturnal animals you can find them in the Night Life habitat area of the zoo.
Visit our harvest mice at London Zoo
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What threats do harvest mice face?
Harvest mice are currently listed as Least concern on the Endangered list, however, modern agriculture such as using machinery (combine harvesting), spraying, harvests being collected earlier and stubble burning are a threat to them as these practices result in habitat loss and fragmentation for the Harvest mice. In some areas in the UK the species is considered Vulnerable.
What can we do to help Harvest mice?
If you live near farmland, Harvest mice may visit your garden searching for food and a place to make a nest. Leaving some areas of tall undisturbed grasses in you garden can help to provide a habitat for them.