Wood Mouse

The Wood Mouse is sometimes known as the Long-tailed Field Mouse and is widespread, probably most common in woodland, rough grassland and gardens.

It will gather food stores of berries and seeds in the autumn, which it keeps in underground burrows or sometimes in old birds’ nests. The Wood Mouse is mostly nocturnal.

How to Identify

Bigger than the Harvest Mouse, the Wood Mouse can be distinguished from the House Mouse by its golden-brown colour and relatively larger ears and eyes.

Where to Find

Found throughout the country.

What People can do

Although it is common, if Wood Mouse numbers decline, other species higher up the food chain, such as owls, may suffer. The loss of woodland and hedgerow habitats could pose a threat to the Wood Mouse. Working with farmers and landowners to ensure wildlife-friendly practices, The Wildlife Trusts are working towards a Living Landscape: a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.

Did you know?

The Wood Mouse is our commonest mouse and the one you are most likely to find in your garden. Because of this, it often falls prey to domestic cats. owls, foxes and weasels also prey on the Wood Mouse; in fact, Tawny owls may not breed if Wood Mouse numbers are low as it restricts their diet.