A Mouse's Life

Have you ever wondered how some of nature's smallest creatures spend their days? Here's your chance to take a scientifically accurate peek into the life of the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopsus). Striking illustrations and lively storyline capture the real life changes for this small animal as it hunts for food, faces its enemies, and interacts with humans.



The white-footed mouse is common throughout most of the United States and Canada. It usually sleeps during the day and spends the night searching for food. Seeds and nuts are this mouse's favorite food, but it also eats insects, fruit, and mushrooms. Of course, a piece of cheese left out is always welcome.

The white-footed mouse is active all year long. It builds a nest of twigs, leaves, and grass in tree holes, abandoned bird houses, and wood piles. It may even make a nest in your attic or basement.

Owls and cats are the biggest enemies of the white-footed mouse. When a mouse senses danger, it drums its feet to warn other mice. The mice run and hide until the danger has passed.

White-footed mice live for about 2 to 3 years in the wild. They may give birth as many as four times a year. Each litter has two to six babies. That's a lot of mice!