What do mice and moles eat? - briefly
Mice consume a varied diet of seeds, grains, fruits, and occasional insects, reflecting their omnivorous habits. Moles feed almost exclusively on soil invertebrates such as earthworms, insects, and larvae, making them strict carnivores.
What do mice and moles eat? - in detail
Mice are opportunistic omnivores. Their diet consists primarily of plant material but includes animal protein when available. Common items include:
- Seeds from grasses and cereals
- Whole grains such as wheat, oats, and barley
- Nuts and kernels
- Fresh fruits and berries
- Insects, larvae, and spider egg sacs
- Small amounts of carrion or stored food waste
Mice readily adapt to seasonal changes, increasing seed consumption in autumn and supplementing with insects during warmer months. Their digestive system processes high‑carbohydrate foods efficiently, while limited enzymatic capacity restricts the breakdown of cellulose.
Moles are specialized insectivores that rely almost exclusively on subterranean invertebrates. Their primary prey comprises:
- Earthworms, the most abundant source of protein and moisture
- Larvae of beetles, flies, and moths
- Small insects such as springtails and centipedes
- Nematodes and other soft-bodied organisms
Moles possess a highly acidic stomach and a short digestive tract, optimized for rapid assimilation of protein‑rich prey. Their powerful forelimbs enable them to excavate soil and locate hidden invertebrates, while a keen sense of vibration detects prey movement.
Comparatively, mice exhibit dietary flexibility, allowing survival in diverse habitats, whereas moles display strict reliance on soil-dwelling fauna. Both species influence ecosystem dynamics: mice disperse seeds and affect grain stores, while moles regulate populations of soil invertebrates, contributing to soil aeration and nutrient cycling.