How much does a field mouse weigh? - briefly
A typical field mouse weighs between 10 and 30 grams (approximately 0.35–1.1 oz).
How much does a field mouse weigh? - in detail
The average mass of a common field mouse ranges from 10 g to 25 g, with most individuals clustering around 15 g. This span reflects differences among species such as the European wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) and the North American meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus), each exhibiting distinct size norms.
Weight variation is driven by several biological and environmental factors:
- Age: Juveniles weigh 2–5 g; adults reach the upper limits of the species‑specific range.
- Sex: Males are typically 5–10 % heavier than females.
- Season: Autumn individuals often gain body fat, increasing mass by up to 20 % compared with spring counterparts.
- Food availability: Abundant seed or grain supplies can elevate average weight, while scarcity leads to leaner bodies.
- Geographic location: Populations in colder climates tend to be larger, adhering to Bergmann’s rule.
Researchers obtain these measurements using calibrated analytical balances, recording live weight to the nearest 0.1 g before release. Post‑mortem specimens are weighed after blotting excess moisture to ensure accuracy. Data sets from long‑term monitoring programs consistently report mean values within the 12–18 g interval for healthy adult field mice.
For practical reference, a single mouse of 15 g is comparable in mass to a standard US dime (2.27 g) multiplied by seven, illustrating the modest size of these rodents. Understanding the precise weight range aids in ecological modeling, predator‑prey dynamics, and the design of humane trapping equipment.