What do field mice eat? - briefly
Field mice primarily eat seeds, grasses, herbs, and other plant parts, adding insects and small invertebrates when available. Their diet shifts seasonally, increasing protein intake from arthropods during the warmer months.
What do field mice eat? - in detail
Field mice are omnivorous rodents that exploit a wide range of food sources depending on season, habitat, and availability. Their intake can be categorized into three primary groups: plant material, animal matter, and supplemental items.
- Seeds and grains – wheat, barley, oats, and wild grass seeds constitute a major portion of their diet, especially in late summer and autumn when seed production peaks. Mice collect and store these kernels for winter use.
- Fruits and berries – ripe strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and small wild fruits provide carbohydrates and vitamins. Mice often gnaw the outer skin to access the pulp.
- Green vegetation – tender shoots, leaves, and herbaceous stems are consumed during spring when foliage is abundant. Young grass and lettuce leaves are preferred for their moisture content.
Animal-derived nutrients supplement the plant base:
- Invertebrates – insects such as beetles, caterpillars, and earthworms are captured opportunistically. Larvae and soft-bodied arthropods supply protein and essential amino acids.
- Eggs and small vertebrates – occasional predation on bird eggs or the consumption of dead amphibians and reptiles occurs, particularly when other foods are scarce.
Additional resources augment the core diet:
- Fungal material – mushrooms and mycelium are ingested for moisture and micronutrients.
- Anthropogenic waste – grain spillage, stored cereals, and discarded kitchen scraps are exploited in agricultural settings.
Seasonal shifts drive dietary adjustments. In spring, field mice rely heavily on fresh greens and insects, while summer sees increased fruit consumption. Autumn triggers seed caching behavior, and winter forces reliance on stored seeds and any available animal protein. Their flexible foraging strategy enables survival across diverse temperate ecosystems.