Harvest Mouse
Micromys minutus
Overview
Harvest mice are our smallest rodent. That nest. Tennis ball. In grass. Foulshaw Moss. Tall grassland. Rare. Nests in winter. Look for them in cut grass. Don't expect to see one. Be pleased if you do.
At a Glance
| Order | Rodentia |
| Family | Muridae |
| Habitat | Tall grassland · Reedbeds · Cereal fields |
| Diet | Seeds, insects. |
| UK population | Declining. Localised. |
| Lake District | Foulshaw Moss. Tall grassland. Reedbeds. That nest. Tennis ball. In grass. Our smallest rodent. Rare. Don't expect to see one. Nests in winter. Look for them in cut grass. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Tall grassland, reedbeds. Foulshaw Moss, the valleys. That nest. Tennis ball. In grass. Our smallest rodent. Rare.
Identification
Tiny. Prehensile tail. Nest like tennis ball. In grass. Our smallest rodent.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Tall grassland. Foulshaw Moss. Nests in winter. That tennis ball. Rare. Don't expect to see one.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is of moderate conservation concern. Population monitoring and habitat management in the Lake District support its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.