How long does a common mouse live? - briefly
A common mouse typically lives about one to two years in the wild, while in a controlled environment it can reach two to three years.
How long does a common mouse live? - in detail
The average lifespan of a house mouse (Mus musculus) varies markedly between natural habitats and controlled environments. In the wild, individuals typically survive 12 – 24 months; predation, disease, and fluctuating food supplies limit longevity. Laboratory or pet settings extend life expectancy to 2 – 3 years, with some records approaching 4 years under optimal care.
Key factors influencing duration:
- Genetics: Certain strains possess innate longevity traits; inbred laboratory lines often display consistent lifespan data.
- Nutrition: Balanced diets rich in protein and essential micronutrients reduce early mortality; caloric restriction can modestly increase lifespan.
- Environment: Stable temperature (20 – 24 °C), low stress, and absence of predators markedly improve survival odds.
- Health management: Prompt treatment of respiratory infections, parasites, and neoplastic conditions prevents premature death.
Reproductive biology also affects longevity. Females reach sexual maturity at 5 – 6 weeks, producing 5 – 10 litters per year, each containing 5 – 12 pups. The physiological demands of frequent breeding can shorten adult life, especially in wild populations where resources are scarce.
Mortality causes differ by setting:
- Wild: Predation by birds, snakes, and mammals; exposure to extreme weather; infectious agents such as hantavirus and ectoparasites.
- Captivity: Neoplasms (especially mammary tumors), age‑related organ decline, and occasional metabolic disorders.
Overall, a typical house mouse can be expected to live roughly one to two years in its natural environment, while under human care the lifespan extends to two to three years, contingent upon genetics, diet, environmental stability, and health interventions.