How long does a mouse live? - briefly
A typical laboratory mouse reaches an age of 1.5–3 years, whereas wild mice usually survive only 6–12 months. The lifespan varies with species, genetics, diet, and environmental conditions.
How long does a mouse live? - in detail
The average lifespan of a mouse varies considerably with species, environment, and care. In the wild, typical house mice (Mus musculus) survive 1–2 years, rarely exceeding 18 months due to predation, disease, and limited food. Field mice such as the deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) often reach 18–24 months, while some larger species, like the African pygmy mouse (Mus minutoides), may live up to 3 years under optimal conditions.
Laboratory strains benefit from controlled temperature, nutrition, and absence of predators, extending longevity to 2–3 years for common inbred lines (e.g., C57BL/6). Outbred stocks, which retain greater genetic diversity, sometimes achieve 4 years. Exceptional individuals reported in research facilities have reached 5 years, but such cases are rare.
Key factors influencing lifespan include:
- Genetics: Certain alleles affect metabolism, immune function, and aging rate.
- Diet: Balanced protein, fat, and micronutrient intake reduces age‑related decline.
- Housing: Adequate space, enrichment, and low stress levels improve health.
- Health monitoring: Early detection of tumors, respiratory infections, and metabolic disorders prolongs survival.
Mortality patterns differ between sexes. Females generally outlive males by 10–20 %, reflecting hormonal and behavioral differences. Reproductive status also matters; breeding females experience a shorter lifespan than non‑breeding counterparts due to the physiological costs of gestation and lactation.
In summary, a mouse’s life expectancy ranges from roughly one year in natural habitats to up to four years in well‑managed laboratory settings, with genetics, nutrition, environment, and gender shaping the exact duration.