What do marsupial mice eat? - briefly
Marsupial mice feed mainly on seeds, fruits, and insects, adding nectar and pollen when those resources are present. Their diet shifts toward higher protein arthropods during the breeding season.
What do marsupial mice eat? - in detail
Marsupial mice are obligate insectivores. Their natural diet consists primarily of small arthropods captured on the ground or in leaf litter. Common prey includes beetles, ants, termites, spiders, centipedes, and the larvae of moths and flies. They also consume isopods, millipedes, and occasionally tiny crustaceans such as amphipods when found near water sources.
Seasonal shifts affect food choice. In summer, abundance of flying insects leads to increased consumption of adult insects, while winter scarcity prompts a greater reliance on larvae and detritus‑dwelling invertebrates. Fruit, seeds, and nectar appear sporadically in stomach contents but do not form a substantial portion of the intake.
Nutritional requirements emphasize high protein (45–55 % of dry matter) and moderate fat (15–25 %). Carbohydrate levels remain low (under 10 %). Adequate calcium‑phosphorus ratios (approximately 1.2:1) are essential for skeletal health. Water is primarily derived from moist prey; supplemental water should be offered in captivity to prevent dehydration.
Captive feeding protocols mirror wild habits. A balanced regimen includes:
- Live or freshly killed insects (crickets, mealworms, waxworms) offered nightly.
- Occasional enrichment with soft-bodied prey (earthworms, larvae) to provide varied nutrients.
- Small portions of diced fruit (berries, figs) or nectar‑infused gel no more than twice weekly.
- Calcium supplement dusted on insects to maintain mineral balance.
Feeding frequency aligns with nocturnal activity: individuals are provided food each evening, with excess removed after a few hours to prevent spoilage. Monitoring body condition and fecal consistency helps adjust portions and ensure optimal health.