What do field mice eat at home? - briefly
In a household environment, field mice mainly eat seeds, grains, nuts, and occasional insects or pet food scraps. They also gnaw on soft plant matter such as sprouts and leafy greens.
What do field mice eat at home? - in detail
Field mice that establish themselves inside a residence rely on readily accessible human‑supplied resources. Their diet consists primarily of carbohydrate‑rich items, protein sources, and occasional fats.
- Grains and cereals: wheat, rice, oats, barley, corn, and processed products such as bread, crackers, and breakfast cereals.
- Seeds and nuts: sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, almonds, and other stored kernels.
- Fresh produce: apple slices, berries, grapes, carrots, lettuce, and other vegetables that are left uncovered.
- Pet food: dry kibble for dogs or cats, which provides a concentrated protein and fat supply.
- Insects and carrion: dead flies, beetles, moth larvae, and small dead animals that accumulate in hidden corners.
Seasonal changes affect availability. In winter, stored pantry items and dried fruits become dominant; during warmer months, fresh fruits and vegetables appear more frequently. Moisture content influences choice—mice prefer slightly damp foods, which facilitate digestion.
Protein intake is supplemented by occasional consumption of meat scraps, cheese, or cooked eggs left unattended. Fat is obtained from seeds, nuts, and oily pet treats.
Overall, field mice exploit any edible material that is unsealed, low‑cost, and easy to gnaw, demonstrating opportunistic feeding behavior within the domestic environment.