The house mouse (Mus musculus) is a small rodent, a mouse, one of the most numerous species of the genus Mus.As a wild animal the house mouse mainly lives associated with humans, causing damage to crops and stored food.The house mouse has been domesticated as the pet or fancy mouse, and as the laboratory mouse which is one of the most important model organisms in biology and medicine. It is by far the most commonly used genetically altered laboratory mammal.
Ten Facts about House Mouse
- House mice have an adult body length (nose to base of tail) of 7.5-10 cm (3.0-3.9 in) and a tail length of 5-10 cm (2.0-3.9 in).
- The weight is typically 10-25 g (0.4-0.9 oz).
- They can jump up to 45 cm (18 in).
- House mice consume and contaminate food, pet food and animal feed.
- Mice are mostly active during dusk or night; they do not like bright lights.
- They have a sharp sense of hearing and can perceive ultrasound, possibly up to 100 kHz.
- Females reach sexual maturity at about 6 weeks and males at about 8 weeks.
- In protected environments, however, they often live two to three years.
- Male house mice court females by emitting characteristic ultrasonic calls in the 30 kHz - 110 kHz range.
- Snakes, Dogs, Cats, other rats are some of their predators.
